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The Ayyappa Sangamam event, which is typically centered around the worship and celebration of Lord Ayyappa, has sparked controversy after it was reported that the event would proceed without the inclusion of Ayyappa. This development comes amidst an ongoing row over the Sabarimala temple, a prominent pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Ayyappa in Kerala, India. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has vehemently opposed this move, expressing outrage and criticizing the decision to exclude Ayyappa from the event. The party’s strong reaction suggests that the move is seen as an attempt to secularize or dilute the religious significance of the event, which is primarily focused on the worship and celebration of Lord Ayyappa. The controversy also draws attention to the broader debate surrounding the Sabarimala temple, where the entry of women of menstruating age was previously restricted. The Supreme Court of India’s decision to lift this restriction in 2018 sparked widespread protests and debate, with many arguing that the ruling infringed upon the traditional religious practices and beliefs associated with the temple. In this context, the exclusion of Ayyappa from the Ayyappa Sangamam event can be seen as a highly contentious issue, with the BJP and other groups likely viewing it as an affront to the religious sentiments of devotees. The use of the phrase “First Gold, Now the God” in the context of the controversy may suggest that the criticism is not just limited to the religious aspect but also touches upon issues of cultural heritage and the perceived erosion of traditional values. To understand the full implications of this controversy, it would be helpful to know more about the specific circumstances surrounding the Ayyappa Sangamam event and the reasons behind the decision to exclude Ayyappa. Additionally, considering the ongoing political and social landscape in India, particularly in relation to the Sabarimala issue, could provide further insight into why this decision has sparked such significant backlash from the BJP and potentially other groups.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 75 today, here’s a look back at his unconventional birthday celebrations over the last five years:

2018: On his 68th birthday, PM Modi spent the day in his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi. He inaugurated several development projects, including a sewage treatment plant and a water treatment plant, aimed at cleaning the Ganga River. He also interacted with school children and distributed sweets to them.

2019: On his 69th birthday, PM Modi visited the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat, where he oversaw the closing of the dam’s gates, marking a significant milestone in the project. He also attended a function to mark the launch of the ‘Namami Narmade’ festival, which aimed to promote the conservation of the Narmada River.

2020: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, PM Modi’s 70th birthday was a low-key affair. He spent the day in virtual meetings with world leaders, including the President of the United States, and also interacted with healthcare workers and COVID-19 warriors.

2021: On his 71st birthday, PM Modi launched the ‘Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission’, a digital health initiative aimed at providing universal health coverage to all citizens. He also participated in a virtual event to mark the launch of the ‘PM-CARES for Children’ scheme, which provides support to children who have lost their parents to COVID-19.

2022: On his 72nd birthday, PM Modi visited the Simhet village in Gujarat, where he participated in a tree-planting ceremony and launched several development projects, including a water supply scheme and a solar power plant. He also interacted with beneficiaries of various government schemes and distributed aid to them.

This year, as PM Modi turns 75, it is expected that he will continue his tradition of celebrating his birthday in a unique and meaningful way, possibly by launching new initiatives or visiting significant locations. The day is likely to be marked by various events and celebrations across the country, with leaders and citizens wishing him on his special day.