Election Tourism: World’s Largest Democracy in Action

Bharat is experiencing a remarkable boom in “election tourism.” Travelers from around the globe are spending substantial sums of money to witness the electoral campaigns of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the holy city of Varanasi. This unique form of tourism has emerged as a fascinating trend, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant political atmosphere of the world’s largest democracy.

Varanasi: A Confluence of History and Politics
Varanasi, one of Bharat ‘s most beautiful and holy cities, is home to numerous Hindu temples and historical sites. During the upcoming parliamentary elections, more than 1.9 million residents of this metropolis will exercise their right to vote. Recognizing the city’s historical and cultural significance, many travel agencies have seized the opportunity to invite both foreign and domestic tourists to observe the election campaigns firsthand.

Curated Experiences for Political Enthusiasts

These travel agencies offer meticulously curated packages ranging from approximately $100 to $500 for an eight-day immersion in the electoral spectacle. The election campaigns are expected to be a major draw for visitors from Bharat and abroad. Two factors are crucial to the public discourse surrounding this election: the charismatic persona of Prime Minister Modi and the deep historical and cultural connections of Varanasi itself.

Varanasi: A Destination for Millions

According to the tourist department, Varanasi is anticipated to welcome approximately 58 million visitors by the end of 2023 alone. Interestingly, 13,800 foreign visitors have already arrived in Varanasi to witness the world’s oldest and most culturally rich city. The majority of these visitors hail from the United Kingdom, the United States, and Russia.

The Divine Allure of Varanasi
While some visitors are drawn by the political fervor, many others travel to Varanasi to experience the divine aura of the city. Numerous sadhus and Hindu pilgrims flock to Varanasi in search of serenity and a closer connection with the divine. Some individuals embark on this journey solely to seek guidance and life lessons from revered gurus residing in the city.

In pursuit of inner peace and spiritual wealth, a significant number of foreign visitors have even made the decision to relocate permanently to Varanasi. Remarkably, around 500 international visitors are actively seeking Indian citizenship for the sole purpose of residing near the sacred River Ganges.

The Path of Renunciation
Varanasi is home to many sants who live in complete isolation from material possessions, eschewing even clothing. These individuals pursue their own happiness and live solely for the divine, embodying the principles of renunciation and spiritual enlightenment. It is this profound spiritual essence that draws many individuals to the city, seeking instruction and guidance from these revered sages.

As Bharat gears up for its monumental parliamentary elections, Varanasi emerges as a unique destination that seamlessly blends the realms of politics and spirituality. Election tourism in this ancient city promises to be an unforgettable experience, offering visitors a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of the world’s largest democracy while simultaneously immersing them in the timeless spiritual traditions that have shaped the essence of Varanasi for centuries.