In a striking move that has captured the public's imagination, Madhya Pradesh's Chief Minister, Dr. Mohan Yadav, proclaimed himself as "a servant of Mahakal," challenging a longstanding local belief. This statement comes in the wake of his recent visit to Ujjain, a city steeped in myth and spirituality.

For over two centuries, a local legend in Ujjain, known as the "Ujjain jinx," has held a firm grip on the political narrative of the region. According to this myth, any sitting chief minister who visits the city and stays overnight would soon lose their position. This belief has been a part of Ujjain's folklore for 211 years, influencing political behaviors and decisions.

However, Dr. Mohan Yadav, the newly appointed Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, has boldly defied this superstition. His visit to Ujjain on December 16 came just days after his swearing-in on December 13. During his visit, he performed 'Rudrabhishek' at the revered Mahakaleshwar Temple, a significant and holy ritual for the devotees of Lord Shiva, who is also known as Mahakal.

In an unexpected turn of events, and contrary to the popular belief embedded in the "Ujjain jinx," Dr. Yadav did not leave the city immediately after his temple visit. Instead, he chose to stay overnight in Ujjain, a decision that left many surprised and intrigued. This act of defiance by the Chief Minister is not just a personal statement but also reflects the broader attitude of the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), which he represents. The BJP has recently demonstrated its capability to break records and outperform its rivals, as evidenced by their electoral victories in states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh.

Dr. Yadav's bold move in Ujjain could be seen as a metaphor for the BJP's approach: challenging established norms and myths, and setting new precedents. By staying overnight in Ujjain and openly declaring himself as a "servant of Mahakal," the Chief Minister has not only broken a long-held myth but also showcased a new kind of political confidence and religious devotion.

On a significant Saturday in Ujjain, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav engaged in an event that further solidified his role as a leader who defies conventions. He attended the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY) in Ujjain, a gathering that marked an important moment for the city and the state. During this event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi played a crucial role, albeit remotely. He interacted with and addressed the beneficiaries of the VBSY via video conferencing, highlighting the importance of the initiative. The VBSY, which had recently completed its first month, represents a significant stride towards progress and development in the region.

In the backdrop of this event lies a fascinating piece of Ujjain's lore, deeply entwined with the city's identity and its perception of leadership and power. There's an old myth in Ujjain that stipulates only one 'Raja' or king can spend the night there. This belief is rooted in the religious reverence for Lord Mahakal, who is celebrated as 'Ujjain's Raja.' According to local beliefs, no other chief or ruler, be it a chief minister or even a prime minister, can spend the night in Ujjain without facing the consequence of losing their power and government. This myth has been a part of Ujjain's cultural fabric for years, influencing the actions and decisions of political figures.

This reverence for Lord Mahakal is not merely symbolic but is also manifested in ceremonial practices. Similar to how Lord Ram is honored in Orchha, where he is revered as the king and given a Guard of Honour daily, Lord Mahakal, as the king of Ujjain, receives a similar honor. This tradition signifies the deep respect and veneration for these divine figures and their perceived roles as sovereigns over these cities.

The legend of the Ujjain jinx, a superstition deeply ingrained in the local culture, has gained prominence over the years due to several notable instances where political leaders allegedly faced dire consequences after spending the night in Ujjain. This belief has been bolstered by historical events involving high-profile leaders. One such instance is that of former Prime Minister Morarji Desai, who, after spending a night in Ujjain in 1979, found himself resigning from his post the very next day. This incident has often been cited as a testament to the supposed power of the jinx.

Another example that has fed into this myth involves a former Chief Minister of Karnataka, Yediyurappa. It is believed that he spent nearly 20 days in Ujjain and subsequently lost his position of power. These events have contributed to the lore surrounding Ujjain, making the jinx a topic of both reverence and curiosity among the people.

Against this backdrop, the decision of Dr. Mohan Yadav, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and a native of Ujjain, to spend the night in his hometown after assuming office takes on a bold and defiant tone. CM Yadav, fully aware of the myth and its implications, has chosen to confront it head-on with a unique perspective. He dismisses the notion of the jinx applying to him, not on the grounds of disbelief but on a different interpretation of his role. He asserts, "I am no king, only Mahakal is the king. I am only his son. These myths are all pointless." This statement reflects a deep personal conviction and a sense of devotion, positioning himself as a humble servant and son of Lord Mahakal, rather than a ruler susceptible to the whims of legend.

His approach to this myth is pragmatic and symbolic. He instructed the local administration to take him to KD Gate, from where he proceeded to his home, demonstrating a deliberate and thoughtful engagement with the tradition. By declaring himself a lifelong servant of Mahakal, born and raised in Ujjain, CM Yadav articulates a belief that the jinx does not apply to him. This stance not only challenges the traditional interpretation of the myth but also redefines the relationship between political leaders and cultural beliefs.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, in a recent development, has indicated plans that further demonstrate his disregard for the long-standing Ujjain jinx. He mentioned that a cabinet meeting is likely to be held in Ujjain, potentially in January 2024. This announcement is significant as it represents another step in challenging the old myth and changing the narrative around Ujjain's political and cultural significance. Hosting a cabinet meeting in Ujjain, especially after breaking the myth by spending the night there, sends a strong message of confidence and a new approach to governance that does not bow to superstitions.

In a public gathering, CM Yadav delved into the origins of the Ujjain jinx. He revealed that the myth was started 211 years ago by Daulat Rao Scindia, a historical figure and then-ruler. According to CM Yadav, after the death of Madhya Pradesh’s then-king, Mahadji Scindia, Daulat Rao Scindia planned to shift the state capital from Ujjain to Gwalior. In an effort to justify this move and perhaps to consolidate his power, he propagated the myth that Ujjain, being under the sole reign of Baba Mahakal, could not accommodate another king overnight. This revelation by CM Yadav provides a historical and political context to the myth, suggesting that it may have been a strategic ploy rather than a spiritual decree.

This interpretation of the myth and its historical background opens up a debate on the nature of such beliefs. While some people might dismiss it as mere superstition, others might continue to believe in its validity. The dichotomy in views is evident in the differing opinions of various groups, including religious leaders. A significant point raised in this context is the absence of any mention of this myth in Hindu scriptures. Several priests and saints have pointed out that since the myth does not find any reference in religious texts, it cannot be considered valid from a religious standpoint.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav's decision to break the Ujjain jinx brings to mind a similar challenge to superstition by another Indian political leader, Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Adityanath confronted the "Noida jinx," a superstition similar in nature to the one in Ujjain. This particular myth began circulating in 1988 and was linked to a series of incidents where several chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh reportedly lost their positions after visiting Noida, a city adjacent to the national capital, New Delhi.

The origin of the Noida jinx can be traced back to the tenure of former Chief Minister Vir Bahadur Singh, who, after visiting Noida, was said to have lost power. This event laid the foundation for the belief that any chief minister who visited Noida would face a similar fate. Over the years, this superstition became ingrained in the political culture of Uttar Pradesh, influencing the decisions and movements of subsequent chief ministers.

However, in December 2017, Yogi Adityanath, then the newly-elected chief minister, boldly decided to defy this myth. He visited Noida to inaugurate metro projects and other development initiatives. This visit was significant as it represented a clear departure from the caution and apprehension shown by his predecessors regarding the Noida jinx. By choosing to inaugurate important infrastructure and development projects in Noida, Adityanath not only demonstrated his commitment to the region's progress but also his disregard for the superstition.

CM Mohan Yadav's recent actions in Ujjain and Yogi Adityanath's earlier decision in Uttar Pradesh are examples of political leaders challenging and redefining the role of superstitions in governance. These instances highlight a growing trend among Indian politicians to confront and dismiss long-held myths that have previously influenced political behavior. By doing so, they are not only setting new precedents but also encouraging a more rational and development-oriented approach in their governance.

This shift in attitude is significant as it moves away from decisions based on superstition to those based on practicality and the welfare of the public. It underscores the evolution of political leadership in India, where myths and legends, while respected as part of cultural heritage, are increasingly seen as separate from the rational decision-making required in governance. This change can be seen as part of a broader movement towards modernity and progress, signaling a new era in Indian politics where development and pragmatic leadership take precedence over traditional superstitions.