Seventy-five years after independence, a long-suppressed truth demands to be heard: India’s heart beats Hindu. Cloaked under the guise of ‘secularism’ born in political shadows, the nation’s core has been hidden from view. Now, the veil is lifting. It is time to reclaim India’s soul, the ancient, timeless spirit that has shaped its destiny and unity across millennia.

Ritual theatre, a form of performance that combines sacred rituals with dramatic expression, is typically performed in temples or community spaces and is deeply rooted in religious festivals and collective memory.

The central and state governments should seriously consider special packages of incentives and concessions ahead of festivals. India’s festivals – be it Holi, Diwali, Eid, or Christmas – are not just celebrations of joy but also powerful engines driving the country’s economic growth. These vibrant events sustain the momentum of India’s market economy, making government support for festivals essential due to their multifaceted impact.

The Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj witnessed an unprecedented gathering of faith and spirituality. Over 66.30 crore devotees immersed themselves in the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. The event lasted 45 days and became a symbol of devotion and cultural heritage.

​Opposition leaders and left-wing thinkers may not have been impressed by the recently concluded Maha Kumbh Mela, but the successful conclusion of this event in Prayagraj has not only enhanced the stature of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath but also demonstrated India's ability to blend tradition with modernity.

A few days ago, at a classical music event in South India, a scholar asked me, "What is the current state of the Agra Gharana, and who is preserving it?" My answer was burdened with ignorance and helplessness. This question points to a significant concern - how Hindustani classical music, especially the Agra Gharana, is being neglected in modern times.