BJP MLA Parag Shah, with Rs 3,383 cr assets in 2024, turns beggar for a day on Jain guru advice

Mangalore Today News Network

Mumbai, Sep 15, 2026: Maharashtra BJP MLA Parag Shah, one of the state’s wealthiest legislators, recently gave up his security detail, vehicles and expensive belongings and spent a day dressed as a beggar on the streets of Ghatkopar in Mumbai.

A video of the Ghatkopar East MLA in beggar’s attire went viral on social media, leaving many people curious about the reason behind his unusual appearance.

Shah, a businessman-turned-politician, undertook the exercise on the advice of his Jain spiritual guru Namramuni during a special month considered significant in Jain tradition.

Following his guru’s advice, Shah stayed away from his usual security arrangements, vehicles and valuables. He also underwent makeup to ensure that people would not recognise him before spending several hours on the streets seeking alms.

Recalling the experience, Shah said it gave him a different perspective on life and helped him understand how people respond to those seeking help.

“All the respect and honour, the people who line up to meet you — the same people, when I go to them, become taller than me. That is the reality of life,” he said.

Shah also spoke about the kindness he encountered from ordinary people in Mumbai. He recalled receiving ₹20 from a person who asked him to have some food. At another place, a samosa seller gave him food without charging him after Shah said he had no money.

He said the experience showed him that people in Mumbai were willing to help others regardless of their circumstances.

After removing his makeup, Shah later returned to some of the places he had visited while disguised as a beggar and interacted with the same people. This allowed him to observe their reactions without them knowing his identity.

Shah also ate the food he received and spent time sitting by the roadside like a beggar. He later shared his experience with his spiritual guru and others.

Shah, who is involved in the real estate sector, is known for his considerable wealth. In his affidavit filed for the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, he had declared assets worth more than ₹3,383 crore, making him the richest candidate in the state at the time.

The BJP leader has also previously served as a corporator of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).