Varanasi: A political and cultural storm has erupted in Uttar Pradesh following reports of the removal of Ahilyabai Holkar’s statue in Varanasi, raising questions over the ongoing redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat, one of Hinduism’s most sacred cremation sites. The issue has sparked outrage among citizens, historians, and political leaders alike, with prominent figures including former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati and senior Congress leaders voicing strong criticism.

The redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat, initiated in July 2023 with Prime Minister Narendra Modi laying the foundation stone, has been described by the government as a project aimed at beautification, modernization, and improving facilities for pilgrims. The estimated cost of the project stands at approximately ₹17.56 crore, covering structural restoration, improved access, landscaping, and safety enhancements. However, reports of the removal of historical idols and statues—including that of Ahilyabai Holkar, a revered Maratha queen known for her philanthropy and temple-building across India—have intensified scrutiny of the project.

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Mayawati Condemns Removal of Ahilyabai Holkar Statue

Reacting to the reports, Mayawati expressed deep concern over the incident. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on January 18, she stated,

“The news of the removal of Ahilyabai Holkar’s statue in Varanasi is not only the subject of intense discussions but has also spread widespread anger and outrage among a large section of society. The government should clarify its position on this extremely unfortunate incident so that people’s faith and sentiments are not hurt.”

She urged the state government to issue immediate clarification and take necessary measures to dispel confusion, safeguard public sentiments, and prevent further outrage. Mayawati’s comments reflect concerns about historical preservation and cultural respect, emphasizing the emotional and spiritual significance of Ahilyabai Holkar to millions of citizens.

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Congress Leaders Join the Criticism

Senior Congress leaders have also targeted the state government over the redevelopment. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress General Secretary, earlier highlighted the issue of bulldozers allegedly destroying centuries-old heritage at Manikarnika Ghat, stating that the ongoing work cannot be described as “urban planning” but rather a “grave sin.”

In a social media post, she wrote:

“It is extremely regrettable that centuries-old religious and cultural heritage has been destroyed by running bulldozers at Manikarnika Ghat in Banaras. Manikarnika Ghat and its antiquity hold religious significance and are associated with the memories of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar Ji.”

Priyanka Gandhi criticized the government’s actions, alleging that the so-called “renovation” masks commercial interests, turning a sacred heritage site into a commercial hub while dismantling temples, shrines, and religious symbols central to Kashi’s spiritual identity.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge similarly condemned the redevelopment project as a “tasteless beautification and commercialisation” attempt, claiming it was destroying centuries-old religious, cultural, and spiritual heritage. Kharge shared photographs and videos showing demolished idols and bulldozers at the site, questioning the intent behind the redevelopment.

He stated:

“Millions of people come to Kashi every year seeking moksha. Is your intention to betray these devotees?”

Kharge further asked the government whether the destruction of hundreds-of-years-old idols, including those renovated by Ahilyabai Holkar during the Gupta period, was done to benefit business associates linked to the ruling establishment. He also questioned why heritage preservation could not be prioritized alongside cleanliness and modernization, suggesting that demolished artifacts could have been preserved in museums instead of being destroyed.

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Government’s Redevelopment Initiative

The Manikarnika Ghat redevelopment plan was formally initiated in July 2023, with the government citing goals of:

• Improving safety and infrastructure for devotees.
• Enhancing the ghat’s aesthetic and accessibility features.
• Installing modern amenities to accommodate the large influx of visitors.

The total estimated expenditure of the project is ₹17.56 crore, covering landscaping, structural repairs, water management systems, lighting, pathways, and other facilities. The project has been envisioned as part of a broader initiative, following the success of the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, which reportedly increased daily visits from 10,000–15,000 to 1–1.5 lakh devotees.

However, the removal of statues, ancient idols, and other historical markers has raised concerns about the erasure of cultural and spiritual heritage, leading to political backlash and public debate.

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Public and Political Reactions

The controversy has provoked wide-ranging reactions:

• Mayawati called for an immediate government statement to prevent further outrage.
• Priyanka Gandhi Vadra accused the government of masking commercial motives under the guise of urban renewal.
• Mallikarjun Kharge demanded accountability, preservation of heritage, and questioned whether the government prioritized profits over spiritual and cultural legacy.

Social media has also become a platform for heated debates, with users expressing disappointment over the alleged destruction of historical and religious artifacts. Many have highlighted the importance of Ahilyabai Holkar’s legacy, not only in religious terms but also in cultural and administrative reforms she championed during her reign.

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Conclusion

The ongoing Manikarnika Ghat redevelopment controversy underscores the delicate balance between modernization and preservation of historical, spiritual, and cultural heritage. While the government frames the project as a means of improving safety and facilities for pilgrims, critics argue that it risks eroding centuries-old traditions and disrespecting revered historical figures such as Ahilyabai Holkar.

With the BSP and Congress raising pointed questions and social media amplifying public discontent, the state government faces mounting pressure to clarify its actions, ensure heritage conservation, and address public concerns while proceeding with redevelopment. How the administration responds to these challenges may determine both public perception and political ramifications in the region, especially in the context of Varanasi’s cultural and religious prominence.