Priyanka Tiwari
Share
The centuries-old Neja Mela, a religious gathering traditionally held in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has been canceled for 2025 after local authorities denied permission due to security concerns and public objections.
The annual festival, held on the second Tuesday after Holi, is dedicated to Syed Salar Masood, a medieval-era figure associated with military invasions and temple lootings, including the Somnath Temple.
The Neja Mela Committee sought clearance from the administration, but the request was firmly rejected.
Authorities Cite Security Risks and Historical Concerns
Police Stand on the Cancellation
Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shrish Chandra stated that no festival glorifying an invader would be permitted.
"India cannot host events in memory of those responsible for destruction and forced conversions. The event is against the sentiments of many, and public safety is our priority," said ASP Chandra.
He also pointed out that the Hindu community strongly opposed the event, arguing that celebrating a historical figure linked to destruction is unacceptable.
“A person responsible for looting temples and oppressing people cannot be honored with a festival, even if the tradition has been around for centuries,” he added.
ASP Chandra warned that raising the Neja flag during the event would be considered a national security concern.
Previous Attempts to Modify the Festival
In 2023, the administration attempted to rename the event as ‘Sadbhavna Mela’ to maintain social harmony. This change aimed to preserve the religious aspect of the gathering while avoiding its controversial historical connections.
However, despite this adjustment, the Neja Mela Committee insisted on holding the event under its traditional title, leading to a complete rejection of their request in 2025.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Dr. Vandana Mishra, who had earlier denied permission, reaffirmed the stance that the event cannot take place in its original form.
"Despite previous agreements to alter its name, organizers refused to comply, leading to an outright ban this year," she stated.
Neja Mela Organizers Vow to Fight the Ban
The Neja Mela Committee has strongly opposed the cancellation.
"We have been organizing this mela for generations. It is an integral part of our faith, and we will fight to ensure it continues. We will meet higher authorities and even approach the court if necessary," said Shahid Hussain Masudi, President of the Neja Mela Committee.
Organizers argue that the festival is primarily a religious event and should not be seen as a celebration of historical invasions.
The Origins of Neja Mela
The Neja Mela is deeply rooted in local traditions and is observed by a section of the Muslim community to honor Syed Salar Masood, also known as Ghazi Miyan.
Who Was Syed Salar Masood?
- A medieval warrior-saint who fought in northern India.
- Nephew of Mahmud of Ghazni, who led 17 invasions into India between 1000-1027 AD.
- Masood is historically recorded as a military commander who led raids on temples and engaged in forced conversions.
- He was defeated and killed by Raja Suheldev of Shravasti in 1034.
During the Neja Mela, devotees raise the Neja (ceremonial flag) and offer Fatihah (prayers for the deceased) at Masood’s shrine.
Syed Salar Masood’s Role in Uttar Pradesh Politics
Syed Salar Masood remains a controversial figure in Uttar Pradesh’s political and historical discourse.
- His tomb in Bahraich continues to be a pilgrimage site, but his legacy is debated.
- Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has frequently referenced Masood in speeches, portraying him as an invader and contrasting him with Raja Suheldev, a Hindu warrior who resisted foreign rule.
- In 2021, Adityanath accused opposition leaders of being followers of Ghazi Miyan and criticized the glorification of historical figures linked to India’s invasions.
Historians note that Masood’s military campaigns targeted Hindu communities, leading to large-scale destruction, including temples like Suraj Kund in Bahraich.
Who Was Raja Suheldev?
- A legendary king from Shravasti who led a coalition to defeat and kill Syed Salar Masood in 1034.
- His victory over Masood is celebrated in Hindu narratives.
- However, Raja Suheldev was later killed by Syed Ibrahim, a commander of Masood.
Raja Suheldev has been invoked in Dalit politics in Uttar Pradesh, with leaders using his name to mobilize support among marginalized communities.
Read More: JEE Main 2025 Session 2 City Intimation Slip Released: Important Details and How to Download
