PM Modi slams 'mentality of slavery' in fiery speech, defends Hindu traditions

Madhya Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp attack on those who, according to him, ridicule India’s religious and cultural traditions. Speaking in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, at the foundation-laying ceremony of the Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Centre, he accused certain groups of trying to divide society. His remarks come amid criticism of the Maha Kumbh’s organization and stampede incidents in Prayagraj.

Agenda to divide society

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, delivered a strong speech condemning those who "mock religion" and attempt to divide Indian society. Addressing a large gathering while laying the foundation stone of the Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Centre, he asserted that attacks on Hindu traditions stem from a "mentality of slavery."

🚨 PM Modi's BIG ATTACK on Anti-Nationals - praises Baba Bageshwar 🔥

"Those who mock religion, ridicule it, & work to divide people are often supported by 'Foreign' forces."

"People who have fallen into the mentality of slavery keep attacking our faith, beliefs & temples, our… pic.twitter.com/nJVSEPTKpi

— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) February 23, 2025

Modi emphasized that for centuries, people with an anti-Hindu mindset have sought to undermine India’s faith and culture. "Nowadays, we see that a group of leaders mock religion, ridicule it, and engage in dividing people. Many times, foreign forces also support these people to weaken our country and faith. These people attack our festivals, traditions, and beliefs," he stated.

Praise for Bageshwar Dham and Dhirendra Krishna Shastri

The Prime Minister lauded Bageshwar Dham’s head priest, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, for promoting unity and social welfare. "Dhirendra Shastri has been making people aware of the mantra of unity for a long time. Now, he has taken another step in the interest of society by planning to build a cancer institute," Modi said.

He added that Bageshwar Dham would now become a center not only for spirituality but also for healthcare. "Here, people will receive the blessings of bhajan, food, and a healthy life," he remarked.

Maha Kumbh controversy and opposition criticism

Modi’s comments come as the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj faces backlash due to allegations of mismanagement and stampede incidents. Opposition leaders, including Lalu Prasad Yadav and Mamata Banerjee, have accused the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government of failing to handle the massive religious gathering effectively. Defending the significance of the event, Modi said, "The Maha Kumbh is a symbol of India's unity and cultural strength. It will continue to reinforce our nation’s values and traditions."

As the Lok Sabha elections approach, Modi’s speech signals the BJP’s firm stance on religious and cultural nationalism. While his remarks resonate with supporters, they also intensify the political debate over faith, governance, and India’s cultural identity.