Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted the priests of the Kashi Vishwanath temple special ‘pulla’ slippers that were bought from two women-run self-help groups, revealed Jai Ram Thakur, former Himachal Pradesh chief minister.
Talking about the PM’s thought gesture, Thakur recalled that the PM had noticed the priests performing rituals barefoot in very cold weather. He then asked if slippers made from ‘pulla’ or hemp could be sent to the priests since these were considered ‘pure’ and could be worn inside the temple premises.
"I received a call from the prime minister enquiring about the 'pulla' made in Himachal. He mentioned that during his visit to the Kashi Vishwanath temple, he noticed the priests performing rituals barefoot in intense cold conditions, as shoes and sandals were not permitted inside the temple. However, 'pulla' is allowed because they are considered 'pure.' He expressed his intention to send these slippers for the priests," Thakur said.
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Upon learning of two women-run self-help groups in Thakur’s Seraj constituency that made the slippers, he coordinated with them to knit the footwear to be sent to the Prime Minister’s office.
Upon being delivered the ‘pulla’, Prime Minister Modi inquired about the price and insisted on paying it, said Thakur.
"Once the prime minister received the 'pulla,' he called me and inquired about the bill. I was reluctant and asked if it was necessary, to which he replied: 'Send it, and I will not ask for it again.’”
The PM had ₹12,000 transferred from the prime minister’s account to the self-help groups, which Thakur said he was moved to witness.
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