Modi a mascot of Hinduism, says priest

Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not speak a word during the elaborate prayer ceremony conducted for him at Pashupatinath Temple here, revealed head priest Mool Bhatta Ganesh Bhatta, speaking to The Hindu.

Mr. Modi arrived at the temple on Monday morning. The day is considered auspicious in the month of “Shravan” in the Hindu calendar to perform a “Rudrabhishekh puja” with “Panchamrit” offering.

While no media personnel or officials accompanied Prime Minister into the temple , Mr. Modi emerged an hour later wearing four rows of Rudraksh beads. Clad in a saffron kurta and a pink and gold shawl, Mr. Modi waved to pilgrims gathered outside. He later tweeted a photograph of himself with temple officials, adding that he ‘felt extremely blessed.’

“Mr. Modi didn’t say a word but carried out the ceremony as instructed,” Mr. Bhatta said.

“I told him that we see him as a mascot for Hinduism, and appreciate his efforts in saving Hindu culture,” he said, referring to Mr. Modi’s donation of 2,500 kg of sandalwood and Rs. 25 crore to restore the temple.

Mr. Modi ended his visit by writing in Hindi in the visitor’s book: “I am thrilled to be here on Ashtami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in Shravan month. May the graciousness of Pashupatinath continue to prevail on people of both Nepal and India; this is what my wishes are.”