Interestingly, the BSP supremo, who had been highly critical of Hindu symbolism during her early political times, appeared happy on seeing the turn out at her rally organised in the vicinity of the holy Sangam and said it reminded her of the "Kumbh Mela". "We are near the Sangam where the Kumbh Mela would be held less than a year from now. But your enthusiastic presence here makes me feel that I am already at the Kumbh Mela. Keep up the spirit on the day of voting and ensure our victory," she said.

Putting a brave face on the Election Commission's order for covering statues of herself as well as those of her party symbol elephant, Mayawati said, "I am aware that my supporters are unhappy over this step. "The elections are an opportunity to give a befitting reply by voting the BSP back to power with a thumping

majority." Interestingly, the BSP supremo, who had been highly critical of Hindu symbolism during her early political times, appeared happy on seeing the turn out at her rally organised in the vicinity of the holy Sangam and said it reminded her of

the "Kumbh Mela". "We are near the Sangam where the Kumbh Mela would be held less than a year from now. But your enthusiastic presence here makes me feel that I am already at the Kumbh Mela. Keep up the spirit on the day of voting and ensure our victory," she said.