*NEW DELHI: *A ruling party leader in the north Indian state of UttarPradesh has asked members of his Hindu community to “buy swords made ofiron instead of gold jewelry and silver vessels” on Dhanteras.
Dhanteras is a Hindu festival celebrated before the festival of Diwali andaccording to tradition, Hindus buy utensils and other items made of metal.The festival will be celebrated on October 25.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) city president from Deoband, Gajraj Ranahas asked his community members to be ready for the verdict on the Ayodhyaissue.
According to Indian website* news18.com link*, Gajraj Ranasaid, “The Supreme Court verdict on the Ayodhya issue is expected soon andwe are confident that it will be in favour of the Ram temple.”
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This could vitiate the atmosphere, so it is advisable to stock iron swordsinstead of gold jewelry and silver vessels. These swords will be useful forour own protection when such a time comes,” he further told media onSaturday night.
However, he clarified that he did not “utter a word” against any communityor religion.”Even in our rituals, we worship weapons and our Gods andGoddesses have used weapons depending on circumstances. My statement was inreference to the current changing environment and a suggestion to themembers of my community. Nothing more should be read into it,” said *news18.comlink *quoting the leader, Anadolu Agency has reported.
