Amit Shah Attends Mahashivratri Celebrations at Isha Yoga Center Amid Protests

Image credits: Express News Service

Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended the Mahashivratri celebrations at Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, on February 26, 2025, amidst protests from Congress and other political outfits. The event, which commenced at 6 pm and concluded at 6 am the next day, was also attended by Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, Governors of different states, and union ministers. Isha Yoga founder Sadhguru unveiled a free meditation app featuring a 7-minute guided meditation designed to help individuals establish a simple yet powerful daily practice. The meditation app is expected to be a significant addition to the center's offerings, providing a tool for individuals to cultivate a deeper sense of inner peace and wellness.

However, Shah's visit was met with protests from various political outfits, including Congress, which staged a black flag demonstration near Gandhi Park Roundabout in the city. The protesters raised slogans questioning the Centre's alleged non-allocation of funds for development of education in Tamil Nadu and slammed the Centre for its policies. Members of All Progressive Movement, Dravida Viduthalai Kazhagam, and other political outfits also took part in the protest, raising 'go back' slogans and flaying the Home Minister for visiting Isha Yoga Center. The protests were largely peaceful, with some protesters being arrested for assembling without police permission and later released.

The protests were sparked by Shah's comments about B.R. Ambedkar in Parliament, which were perceived as casteist by some groups. The Congress party, in particular, has been vocal in its criticism of the Centre's policies, alleging that they are discriminatory and harmful to the interests of Tamil Nadu. The party has also demanded the release of education funds, which it claims have been withheld by the Centre. The issue has become a major point of contention between the Centre and the state government, with the latter accusing the former of neglecting the state's development needs.

Here is a list of the key stakeholders involved in the protests: * Congress party * All Progressive Movement * Dravida Viduthalai Kazhagam * Dravidar Kazhagam * Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi * Communist Party of India * Tamil Desiya Periyakkam * DMK Students Wing * Students Movement Federation The protests highlight the deep-seated tensions between the Centre and the state government, as well as the ongoing debates over issues such as education funding and policy. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Centre will respond to the protests and the demands of the various political outfits involved.

The Mahashivratri celebrations at Isha Yoga Center were a significant event, with thousands of devotees gathering to mark the occasion. The event was marked by a sense of spirituality and devotion, with many participants expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to attend. Despite the protests, the event passed off peacefully, with no major incidents reported. The success of the event is a testament to the enduring appeal of spiritual practices and the importance of such events in promoting unity and harmony.