On the occasion of Govardhan Puja in the city of Durg, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel was seen getting whipped as part of a ceremony, according to a video shared by news agency ANI on Friday.

Bhupesh Baghel, dressed in a turban and traditional attire, can be seen standing with one arm spread out as a man whips him. A mob has gathered around them, taking photographs of the chief minister as he is being whipped. Loud music is heard playing in the background, along with the pounding of drums.

After eight rounds of whipping, the man eventually comes to a halt and embraces the chief minister. 

“Like every year, CM Baghel on Friday took part in Govardhan puja in Janjgiri village and bore the pain of the sonta (whip) to uphold the custom that has been going on in the state for years for the well-being and prosperity of the people,” a state public relations officer told PTI.

Also Read | PM Modi offers prayers at Kedarnath temple, unveils statue of Guru Shankaracharya

The chief minister emphasised the importance of Govardhan puja, during which cows are worshipped, and said the festival represents “our gratitude to Govansh (cow progeny)”.

“It is the duty of everyone to preserve the identity of our soil and promote it,” he added.

Govardhan Puja is held a day after Diwali to commemorate Lord Krishna’s lifting of Govardhan hill to shield the people of Braj from Lord Indra’s wrath. This year, it is being celebrated on November 5 across North India. Amit Shah, Union Home Minister, wished everyone on the occasion of Govardhan Puja.

“Best wishes for ‘Govardhan Puja’ to all. Jai Shri Krishna!” tweeted Shah.

Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya also wished people and wrote, “Best wishes to all  countrymen on Govardhan Pooja, a symbol of nature, environment and promotion of livestock. I pray to Lord Krishna to remove the sufferings of all and for the welfare of all.”