Maharashtra BJP MLA Parag Shah has drawn attention on social media after spending a day dressed as a beggar despite reportedly owning assets worth more than Rs 3,383 crore. The unusual experience has sparked discussions about wealth, humility and the true value of humanity.
MLA Declared Assets Worth Over Rs 3,383 Crore
Parag Shah, who is involved in the real estate business, declared assets worth more than Rs 3,383 crore in his affidavit for the 2024 elections. He usually moves around with security personnel, expensive vehicles and the privileges associated with political office.
However, he decided to set aside all these comforts for a day and experience the life of an ordinary person. The initiative was reportedly undertaken on the advice of his spiritual guru during a special month observed in the Jain tradition.
Disguised as a Beggar in Mumbai
Shah reportedly sat on the streets of Mumbai’s Ghatkopar area dressed as a beggar. He applied makeup and took precautions to ensure that people would not recognise him. He then asked passers-by for food and money.
During the experience, one person gave him Rs 20 and told him, “Go and eat, Baba.” In another incident, a samosa vendor said he had no money to spare but still offered him a samosa with a smile without accepting any payment.
These interactions reportedly left a deep impression on the MLA.
“That Is the Reality of Life”
After spending several hours in disguise, Shah removed his makeup and returned to the same areas he had visited as a beggar. He observed how people behaved and responded to him.
Reflecting on the experience, he said, “The people who come to meet me appear smaller when they visit me. But when I went to them, they appeared taller than me. That is the reality of life.”
His remarks highlighted the central message of the experiment: money and status do not determine a person’s true worth. Compassion, kindness and respect for others are far more important.