Riots, Religion and the Mobilisation of Communal Hatred in India (with-Rakshi Rath)

Abstract

For a number of years, two of us (Reicher and Rath), have, as part of a larger research team, been studying one of the largest collective gatherings in the world—the Magh Mela at Allahabad in Northern India. This gathering is an immense annual Hindu fair that lasts throughout the lunar month of Magh (generally January–February). Large numbers of pilgrims—mostly North Indians, predominantly elderly and from the higher castes—come to the junction of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers to live a devotional life. Even larger numbers converge to immerse themselves in the Ganges on the various auspicious ‘bathing days’ that occur during the event. Throughout the day and night there are talks, dramas and discussions for these devotees. But given the numbers, the Mela attracts many other individuals and organisations. There are large shopping areas. There is a funfair. Many NGOs attend to raise awareness of issues from environmental pollution to child labour. Trades Unions hold mass meetings. And Hindu nationalist organisations also pitch camp. Of particular importance among them is the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (World Hindu Council—VHP), a religious organisation close to the Bharatiya Janata Party (Indian people’s party—BJP). Their audience consists primarily of the day visitors, a cross section of the Hindu population. Their aim is to draw on that identity, to define that identity and to politicise that identity.