Durga Puja Sparks Political Row in West Bengal

Quick Summary

• Durga Puja Celebrations Begin: with Mahalaya observed on September 21, 2025, Durga Puja festivities commenced in West Bengal.
• PMS Greetings: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Bengali wishes for Mahalaya,emphasizing strength and joy from Goddess Durga’s blessings.
• CM Inaugurations & Announcements: Chief Minister Mamata banerjee began inaugurating pandals on September 20 and unveiled the jaago Bangla Utsav Edition and a music album titled Durga Angon. The State extended ₹1.10 lakh grants to every Puja committee.
• focus on Migrant Issues: Mamata Banerjee highlighted concerns over harassment of Bengali migrants working outside the State while emphasizing West Bengal’s notable inward migration workforce of 1.5 crore people.
• GST Comments: CM Banerjee claimed credit for earlier recommendations to reduce GST rates on insurance after PM Modi noted recent cuts during his national address.
• Opposition Criticism: Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari accused Mamata Banerjee of violating Hindu traditions by inaugurating Pujas before Mahalaya for political purposes.
• Political developments Around Durga Puja:

– BJP leaders performed rituals honoring political violence victims during Mahalaya in Nandigram.
– BJP plans high-profile participation in themed Durga Pujas ahead of upcoming Assembly elections in 2026.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The intersection of politics with customary festivities like Durga Puja underscores its cultural importance within West Bengal’s socio-political landscape. While state grants bolster local celebrations through financial aid, these actions also serve as strategic outreach initiatives for gaining public support ahead of elections.CM Mamata Banerjee’s emphasis on migrant worker issues reflects her bid to connect broader cultural concerns to regional identity politics.

Conversely, criticism from opposition figures such as Suvendu Adhikari regarding festival timing highlights the politicization of cultural practices-a recurring theme where ritual and religious symbolism align with electoral narratives. Prime Minister Modi’s greetings coupled with BJP’s planned involvement showcase attempts at deepening engagement in traditionally non-BJP strongholds.

With Assembly polls approaching, these developments signify how festivals transcend mere celebration into platforms for both showcasing governance achievements and addressing points critical to voters’ sentiments-all deeply rooted in cultural ethos central to Bengal’s identity.

Read more at The Hindu.