A first-of-its-kind training camp is underway by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Himalayan region close to the holy Adi Kailash Temple in Uttarakhand. A programme that combined religious ritual, yoga exercises and meditation practice began today as its political training was officially inaugurated.
The participants of the camp paid their respects to the leaders and members of the organization at Adi Kailash Temple before the organization sessions. Party sources said that training will be intended to enhance ideological awareness, leadership, discipline and cultural awareness of BJP members.
This is an unprecedented event in the caves and pilgrimage region of the Himalayas, and it is a very different kind of political workshop from what is normally found in a city or conference centre. The initiative was hailed as a way to rekindle Indian values and beliefs, and to create a sense of physical and mental well-being through yoga and meditation by BJP leaders.
Adi Kailash, also known as “Chhota Kailash”, is one of the holiest places for Lord Shiva devotees. The region is in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand, and has seen a rise in tourism and infrastructure development in recent years. The BJP has chosen a place of spiritual significance to hold the camp, which is being interpreted as a symbolic gesture.
During the camp, participants should attend lectures on party ideology, grassroots organization, communication strategies, governance and public outreach. It is likely that senior leaders will meet with workers to discuss strengthening the party at the local level and prepare for the coming political challenges.
Sitting on the list that gets included as part of the daily program are yoga sessions and meditation. According to party officials, this is to help participants maintain discipline, concentration and good health. Pre-camp religious programs at the temple emphasized the spiritual aspect of the program.
The BJP is working to shore up its cultural and nationalistic credentials with the measures, according to political watchers. This training of the party in a pilgrimage centre in the Himalayas highlights the party’s focus on spirituality, heritage and Indian traditions.
Considering the challenging terrain and high elevation of the area, security measures and logistics were also put in place beforehand. The programme has also been coordinated by the local authorities for smooth running.
The camp is likely to be held for a few days, with the presence of various senior BJP leaders and workers in various training and spiritual activities.
