Bhupesh Baghel, the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, took a whipping on November 5 as a part of the ‘Govardhan Puja.’
‘Govardhan Puja’ is held every year on the day after Diwali to worship the ‘Govardhan Dhari’ – Lord Sri Krishna. Lord Krishna is said to have saved the people from the wrath of Indra by lifting the Govardhan Hill and providing a cover from the incessant rain.
A part of the the ceremony held at the Janjgiri village of Durg district involves whipping, as the locals believe the act brings prosperity to the region.
The 60-year-old Chief Minister participated in the ritual and did not flinch as the ‘Sonta’ (Whip) hit him over and again.
After the ritual, Mr. Baghel is seen hugging the person who whipped him.
Once a youth congress leader, Mr. Baghel became the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh in December 2018.