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.

The sacred temples of Braj, once vibrant with the divine strains of Dhrupad and Haveli Sangeet, now echo with a different tune. The soulful melodies that celebrated Lord Krishna's love have been largely drowned out by the blare of loudspeakers churning out Bollywood-inspired folk music. The purity of Haveli Sangeet, a devotional art form deeply intertwined with the region's spiritual heritage, has been replaced by a cacophony of commercialized sounds.

At the Maha Kumbh, millions of devotees are taking the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. Meanwhile, various exhibition pavilions at the fair are witnessing a continuous stream of literature, culture, and knowledge.