World · India Bureau
Hindu group distributes knives to girls in Uttar Pradesh ritual
A video showing nine girls receiving knives during a Kanya Pujan ceremony in Muzzafarnagar has sparked controversy on social media. The Hindu Raksha Dal said the distribution was intended to promote self-defence and self-reliance among the children.
LSN India ·
MUZZAFARNAGAR — A video circulating on social media shows nine girls being given knives during a Kanya Pujan (worship of the girl child) ceremony held in Uttar Pradesh's Muzzafarnagar district on Ram Navami, the birth anniversary of Lord Ram.
The event was organised by the Hindu Raksha Dal at a Shiva temple located in the Grass Mandi area. The practice of distributing knives to young girls as part of a religious observance has drawn attention online, with the video gaining traction across various platforms.
Sankey Sharma, district president of the Hindu Raksha Dal, defended the initiative, stating that the knives were distributed to make the girls self-reliant and to impart knowledge of weapons for self-defence purposes. The organisation framed the distribution as part of broader efforts to empower young girls through martial training and independence.
The incident has reignited broader discussions in the region about unconventional religious practices and methods of child empowerment. Authorities have not yet made any official statement regarding the matter.