Howrah Ganesh Puja theme featuring PM Modi sparks political row

A political controversy has emerged in Howrah, West Bengal, over a Ganesh Puja pandal theme featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Lord Ganesha. The display depicts the two figures sitting together drinking tea, a nod to the ‘Chai pe Charcha’ concept, set against a backdrop labeled ‘Hindu Rashtra’. The installation also includes a saffron-colored map of India and a saffron flag.

The organizer, promoter Khokan Kanra, stated that the theme is his personal creative idea and that he views the Prime Minister as a symbol of the nation and Lord Ganesha as a symbol of religion. He denied allegations that the theme was motivated by his recent affiliation with the BJP, asserting that his intention is not to hurt any religious sentiments.

Trinamool Congress leader and MLA Arup Roy criticized the display, suggesting it was an attempt to please political leaders and calling for action from the BJP leadership. Conversely, Howrah District BJP Secretary Om Prakash Singh remarked that he did not find anything wrong with the theme, noting the diverse variety of puja themes seen in West Bengal.