Could the 'I Love Mahakal' Campaign Change the Narrative?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 'I Love Mahakal' campaign launched in Bhopal.
- Initiative aims to promote Sanatan Dharma.
- Posters displayed near Chameli Baba’s tomb.
- Response to the 'I Love Muhammad' campaign.
- Encourages expression of faith across communities.
Bhopal, Sep 26 (NationPress) In the midst of rising tensions surrounding the 'I Love Muhammad' initiative across various states, a fresh campaign dubbed 'I Love Mahakal' has been initiated in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. The campaign commenced on Friday, featuring posters prominently displayed near the temple adjacent to Chameli Baba’s tomb in the city. This initiative has been launched by the Jagrit Hindu Manch.
BJP spokesperson Durgesh Keswani remarked, “We are executing this campaign through the Jagrit Hindu Manch. This is not in opposition to the 'I Love Muhammad' movement. To us, every single day is a celebration. We have also put up similar posters during Ganesh Chaturthi. This is merely a demonstration of our affection for Lord Mahadev. Every faith has the right to showcase its devotion, but Sanatan Dharma is the oldest faith. Our cultural identity is distinct.”
IANS interviewed a saint involved in this campaign.
He stated, “We are striving to promote awareness regarding traditional values. Our objective is to uplift Sanatan Dharma. Just as Muslims express their love for Prophet Muhammad, we too have the liberty to demonstrate our devotion to our deities.”
The 'I Love Muhammad' campaign, which initiated with a banner in Uttar Pradesh, has since expanded to Uttarakhand, Telangana, and Maharashtra. In response, various online movements within the Hindu community have emerged, advocating love for deities such as Lord Ram, Hanuman, Mahadev, and Ganesh.
The controversy ignited on September 4 during a Barawafat procession in Rawatpur village, Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh). A lit board proclaiming 'I Love Muhammad' was erected along the procession route for Eid Milad-un-Nabi, which commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
Tensions escalated when local Hindu groups protested, claiming the banner represented a novel tradition that disrupted the harmony in a diverse community where festivals like Ram Navami had been celebrated traditionally. Accusations flew back and forth, with Hindu groups asserting that Muslim youths vandalized their posters, while Muslim groups contended they were being targeted for their expressions of devotion.
Police intervened to remove the board in an effort to restore order. The incident sparked protests, FIRs, and arrests in numerous locations.