Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attendance at a 'Bhajan Clubbing' programme at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Park in New Delhi on Friday, 26 September 2025, has sparked a sharp political exchange, with Congress leaders questioning state involvement in religious activities and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena accusing the Opposition of denigrating India's devotional and cultural traditions.

What the Event Was About

The programme was held to mark the 110th birth anniversary of Bharatiya Jana Sangh leader Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya. Prime Minister Modi was seen listening to devotional songs, clapping along, and playing a tambourine during the event. He also waved to the crowd upon arriving at the venue.

What Congress Said

Congress MP Karamvir Singh Boudh argued that governments have no business promoting any single religion. 'The job of governments is not to promote any religion. This is unconstitutional. Religious activities are the responsibility of religious institutions, not governments. They should not act in a one-sided manner in this country. India is a country of diversity and different religions. In this manner, the Prime Minister or any leader should not promote one religion,' he said.

Congress MP Pawan Khera offered a more restrained comment, saying, 'The Prime Minister can do whatever he wants; we are concerned about the country.' Congress leader Udit Raj framed the event differently, suggesting it reflected an attempt to imitate Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's engagement style. 'Now they are copying the way Rahul Gandhi ji does things. This is not dialogue. He does 'Mann Ki Baat', while Rahul Gandhi ji engages in dialogue. He listens to people and answers their questions. He is trying to copy Rahul Gandhi,' Raj said.

BJP and Shiv Sena Push Back

Shiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC defended the initiative, framing it as a cultural and wellness programme rather than a purely religious one. 'Why are you seeing it with a view of 'Bhajan'? There is culture, wellness and connect. Youths don't want to listen to discourse, so PM Modi is going there and talking with the youths. I think it's the solution for mental peace. So, for 'New India', there is no need for a stage or podium. When bhajan happens in a park, it gives you peace,' she said.

BJP MP Tarun Chugh went further, accusing the Congress of a pattern of disrespect toward Indian culture. 'It has become the habit of Congress to insult India's bhajans, institutions, Sanatan and culture. Today, the youth have become spiritual and are moving towards 'Bhajan Clubbing' and enjoying it. But Congress leaders, for pleasing their 'videshi aakaon', are watching by wearing Italian glasses,' Chugh said.

Broader Context

The debate touches on a recurring fault line in Indian politics — the boundary between the state and religion, enshrined in the Constitution's principle of secularism. Critics argue that a Prime Minister's visible participation in devotional events blurs that line, while supporters contend that India's civilisational traditions cannot be separated from its public life. This is not the first time Modi's cultural engagements have drawn Opposition scrutiny; similar exchanges have followed temple consecrations and religious gatherings attended in an official capacity. The episode is likely to feed into the broader political narrative ahead of upcoming state assembly sessions.