Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday declared that he was a staunch Hanuman 'Bhakt' and went on to recite the Hanuman Chalisa while defending the anti-Hindu claims made against him.
During an interview with a news channel in front of a live audience, Kejriwal proclaimed that he believed in Lord Hanuman and said, "Since childhood, I've been a firm believer of Lord Hanuman and they call me anti-Hindu."
Quizzing Kejriwal on his faith, the anchor asked him if he visited Hanuman temples while stating that he shouldn't be asking such questions. "Of course, I visit. There's one in my neighbourhood and a big one in CP," responded Kejriwal.
Not letting Kejriwal off the hook, the anchor went to ask, once again, after stating that he shouldn't be asking such a question if he knew the Hanuman Chalisa after claiming to be such a big believer.
Pat came the response from Kejriwal: "Of course, I know it."
"Recite it then," said the anchor, egging him on.
"I'll definitely recite it. Hanuman Chalisa gives me a lot of peace," said a hesitant Kejriwal, adding that he doesn't sing as well as the others, earning him a cheer from the audience.
"I'll try to sing a little but please forgive my tunes, I could be completely out of tune," said Kejriwal before sipping water from a glass and reciting the Hanuman Chalisa.
After singing a portion of the hymn, Kejriwal playfully asked the host to organise a separate programme where he would sing the entire hymn.
Arvind Kejriwal-led incumbent Aam Aadmi Party would be taking on the BJP and the Congress in the February 8 Delhi Assembly polls to remain in power. With less than a week to go, the parties have been rallying in full swing.