Click to play videoPushkar: Indian politics is often associated with stereotypes based on religious divides. But in this election season, people of Rajasthan are breaking age old myths and even party barriers.
Priest, Pushkar Ghats Pandit Manoj Parashar has spent his entire life on the ghats of Pushkar where for centuries visitors from all over the world have come seeking solace and Panditji says Pushkar's politics also have the same spirit of harmony.
Parashar says, “It does not matter if you are from one party or the other, a Hindu or Muslim, only that candidate will win who has Raj Yog in his destiny.”
In the last four elections Pushkar has elected a Muslim as its representative three times. This time too, first-time candidate Naseem Akhatar of the congress is hoping the people of the town renowned for its Brahma Temple would back her.
Congress Candidate, Pushkar Naseem Akhtar says, “I have got the ticket because of the Blessings of Brahmaji. I am a Muslim but I believe all gods are equal. I believe that if Brahmaji and the people of Pushkar want, I will be successful in the winning.”
But it's not just Pushkar. The nearby constituencies of Ajmer and Nagore which are home to numerous shrines and dargahs also offer several examples of communal harmony.
Centuries old Dargah in Nagore is revered both by Hindus and Muslims. The same spirit is also visible in the regions of politics. In fact, Muslims here are politically very different from the Muslims in other parts of north India
In Nagore, BJP has given its ticket to a young Muslim candidate and Muslims here are turning up in large numbers to hear the BJP Chief Minister speak.
Chief Minister Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje says, ”We have given money to 330 Madrassas, We have started midday meal scheme for children of madrassas
While some believe it's a risky gamble, the CM is certain it will pay off.
Raje says, “I do not think it’s a risk, people here support us, its the kind of politics we want in Rajasthan.”
However, It remains to be seen whether Muslims in Nagore will buy Raje's promises, but surely the people of Nagore and Pushkar have broken the stereotypes one often witnesses in Indian politics.
(with video Journalist Bahrat Bhushan).
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