High-end cars, security personnel and mansion; Strange beggar appears on Mumbai streets

MUMBAI: BJP MLA Parag Shah may have had an epiphany and decided to set aside his opulent lifestyle for a day to hit the streets in the disguise of a beggar. The MLA representing Mumbai's Ghatkopar East constituency reportedly did this on the advice of his spiritual guru, Namramuni Maharaj.

Parag Shah is one of the wealthiest political leaders in the country, with reported assets worth approximately Rs 5,000 crore. Namramuni Maharaj had advised Shah to don the role of a beggar to gain firsthand insight into the hardships faced by ordinary people, as part of the 'Chaturmas' observance.

Parag Shah followed his guru's instructions by temporarily foregoing luxuries such as high-end cars, security personnel, and other comforts. He stepped out onto the streets wearing worn-out clothes and using makeup to alter his appearance so that he would not be recognised. He spent the day begging on the streets and eating food found by the roadside. The objective was to personally experience the hardships of living without money, power, or fame.

Shah seems to be a changed man and says that the experience had a profound impact on him. Shah said he could speak with normal people and understand their living conditions. He acknowledged that money, fame, and power can breed arrogance. He stated that this experience helped curb such arrogance and enabled him to move forward with humility.

Despite this profound experience, Shah also revealed some quirky yet startling realities he went through.

"When I arrived at my own residence dressed as a beggar, the watchman chased me away; he didn't recognise me. I also went to a friend who always helps me, wearing the same disguise. But even he failed to recognise me and drove me away," said Parag Shah.