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By:

Akhilesh Sinha

25 June 2025 at 2:53:54 pm

Ideology, Illusion, and the Politics of Power

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi greets supporters during a roadshow ahead of the Kerala assembly polls, in Kozhikode district on Tuesday. | Pic: PTI New Delhi:  At a critical electoral juncture in Kerala, the political contest being waged in the name of ideology appears less about public welfare and more like a renewed struggle for the division of power. Kerala's electoral battle exposes contradictions between ideology and alliances, as BJP, Congress, and Left trade...

Ideology, Illusion, and the Politics of Power

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi greets supporters during a roadshow ahead of the Kerala assembly polls, in Kozhikode district on Tuesday. | Pic: PTI New Delhi:  At a critical electoral juncture in Kerala, the political contest being waged in the name of ideology appears less about public welfare and more like a renewed struggle for the division of power. Kerala's electoral battle exposes contradictions between ideology and alliances, as BJP, Congress, and Left trade accusations while prioritizing power, leaving voters questioning credibility, governance plans, and commitment to justice.   At the national level, the Congress and the Left position themselves as opponents of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Yet before the public, they often appear equally eager to undercut one another. In Parliament, they join hands to bring no-confidence motions and accuse the government of misusing investigative agencies. However, at the state level, this coordination is conspicuously absent. In Kerala, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has alleged a nexus between the CPI(M) and the SDPI, even hinting at tacit understandings between the BJP and the Left. Meanwhile, LDF Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has dismissed these claims as "entirely baseless."   This persistent friction reinforces the impression that ideology has become largely symbolic, while the real contest revolves around consolidating vote banks and securing seats. The Left, invoking the language of "pragmatic alliances," signals readiness to align with the Congress at the national level. Yet in Kerala, it faces accusations of straying from its foundational principles, even as it projects itself as the principal alternative to the BJP.   Conspiracy factor Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has repeatedly asserted in his campaign rallies that this election is a contest between two ideologies-the Left and the UDF. Yet, he claims, for the first time there is an "unprecedented partnership" emerging between the Left and the BJP. He alleges that the CPI(M) can be easily controlled by the BJP, whereas the Congress-led UDF would not play into its hands. Such assertions risk creating the impression that ideological confrontation has now given way to a politics of expedient compromises.   On the other hand, CM Pinarayi Vijayan firmly maintains that his party neither seeks support from the SDPI nor engages in any covert understanding with communal forces. He portrays the Left Democratic Front as a formation grounded in "clear ideological principles" and resolutely opposed to communal politics. The contradiction here is striking that just as the BJP accuses the Congress and the Left of collusion, the Congress and the Left, in turn, level similar charges of "compromise" against each other.   Confused Electorate In Kerala's electoral theatre, PM Modi has branded both the UDF and the LDF as "each other's B team," while projecting the BJP as the only genuine "A team." His argument rests on the claim that the state has, for decades, been trapped between two traditional power blocs, one corrupt and the other allegedly even more so. He contends that both alliances have deceived the public through vote-bank politics, whereas the BJP now promises to "expose" their corruption and deliver "justice."   The larger question remains, when the Left and the Congress join hands in Parliament to oppose the BJP, is their unity rooted in a principled stand against the ruling party BJP/NDA, or is it merely political theatre calibrated for electoral convenience? If both claim to be ideologically committed formations, what justifies their readiness to confront each other in the states and often aggressively over vote banks?   Real Issues At the national level, the Left often raises its voice on substantive constitutional and economic questions; corruption, public debt, privatization, and decentralization. Yet, in the heat of elections, these very debates are reduced to the arithmetic of vote banks and seat shares. The BJP, as the ruling party, seeks to anchor its campaign in development metrics, flagship projects like the Vizhinjam Port, and symbolic initiatives such as the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, presenting them as tangible achievements before the electorate. The opposition, in turn, attempts to recast these same initiatives as narratives of "debt" and "plunder."

Egypt Unveiled: Where Ancient Majesty Meets Modern Charm!

History, culture, flavour and adventure—every journey through Egypt is a tapestry of wonders.

Egypt has always stirred curiosity in every traveller’s heart. Its ancient civilisation, iconic monuments and rich cultural heritage have drawn explorers for centuries. Standing before the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx—marvels among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—you instantly feel the weight of history. Built as monumental resting places for pharaohs, these pyramids, along with the remarkable sites of Abu Simbel, Thebes and the Valley of the Kings, reflect the grandeur of a civilisation far ahead of its time. The story of King Tutankhamun, whose tomb was found in 1922, continues to fascinate the world, fuelled by the legend of the “Curse of the Pharaohs”.


Egyptian mythology adds a magical layer to this land. We’ve all read about its powerful gods and goddesses—Ra, the sun god; Osiris, ruler of the afterlife; Isis, the divine mother; Horus, protector of the skies; Anubis, guardian of mummification; and Hathor, goddess of love and dance. Along with Thoth, Bastet and Amon, these deities shaped the beliefs and rituals that still echo through Egypt’s temples.


Flowing through this ancient land is Egypt’s lifeline—the Nile River. For thousands of years, it has nurtured agriculture, shaped settlements and powered daily life. Along the eastern edge lies the Red Sea, with its colourful coral reefs, vibrant fish and underwater beauty that attracts divers from around the world. Cairo, bustling and energetic, blends ancient monuments with modern culture, while the new administrative capital marks Egypt’s bold step into the future.


The culinary flavours of Egypt add another layer to its charm. From crispy falafel and the beloved koshary—a hearty mix of rice, pasta and lentils—to mulukhiyah, kebabs and kofta, Egyptian cuisine is comforting and soulful. Sweet lovers will enjoy baklava and umm ali, desserts that offer warm hospitality in every bite.


This journey holds a special place in my heart—one of the most memorable experiences of my 25-year tourism career. And today, I’m delighted to take you along.


Our adventure began at Cairo International Airport, where a smiling representative greeted us and escorted us to our hotel. The next morning, our Cairo City Tour began with an English-speaking Egyptologist who guided us through the Pyramids of Giza. Standing before the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren and Mykerinos felt surreal, and the mighty Sphinx, with its silent gaze, added to the wonder. At the Egyptian Museum, we admired statues, royal jewellery and timeless treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb—each piece showcasing the brilliance of ancient craftsmanship.


In the evening, the Nile welcomed us with its gentle breeze. Our dinner cruise offered delicious food, lively belly dancing, captivating folklore performances and a magical Sound and Light Show by the pyramids—an unforgettable moment when history came alive.


The next morning, we flew to Aswan, where the famous High Dam stood tall as a modern engineering marvel that tamed the Nile’s floods. We then visited the Unfinished Obelisk, revealing the skill of ancient stonemasons. After checking into our hotel, we spent the evening at the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to Goddess Isis and beautifully lit during the Sound and Light Show.


At dawn, carrying breakfast boxes, we set out for Abu Simbel. Standing before the colossal rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari was awe-inspiring. Their perfect alignment with the sun twice a year showcases ancient brilliance. Returning to Aswan, we boarded our luxurious Nile cruise, a highlight for its warm hospitality, delicious meals and cultural performances.


The next day, we sailed and stopped at the Kom Ombo Temple, which is uniquely dedicated to Sobek and Horus. We then continued to Edfu to explore the Temple of Horus—the best-preserved temple in Egypt, rich with carvings and mythology. After lunch on board, we sailed to Luxor and visited the beautifully lit Luxor Temple before retiring for the night.


The next morning, we explored Luxor’s West Bank. The Valley of the Kings left us spellbound with its intricately painted royal tombs. The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, with its grand terraces, honoured Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh. We also admired the towering Colossi of Memnon, silent guardians of ancient Thebes.


Later, we travelled to Hurghada in a comfortable luxury bus. Here, the Red Sea offered a completely different kind of beauty. Guests enjoyed swimming, diving and snorkelling in its crystal-clear waters. A glass-bottom boat and submarine ride revealed vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life—an underwater masterpiece.


With hearts full and memories overflowing, we headed to Hurghada Airport for our flight to Mumbai, carrying with us the warmth, wonder and magic of Egypt—a land where history breathes and beauty endures.


Let’s explore more together, so stay tuned!

 

(The writer is a tourism professional and runs a company, Global Voyages. She could be contacted at goglobalvoyages@gmail.com. Views personal.)

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