Archive · 11 Sep 2026
Suvendu Adhikari’s Durga Puja Language Directive Sparks Political Clash
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has asked Durga Puja organisers to use the words “Durga Puja” on stalls.
He said they should not allow Communist-run stalls that use the word “Sharodotsab” instead.
Sharodotsab is a Bengali word connected with the autumn festival.
The report says Rabindranath Tagore used and coined the word in his writing.
Adhikari’s instruction has caused a political argument.
CPI(M) leader Mohammad Salim disagreed with him.
Salim said Durga Puja brings together people from many different backgrounds.
He also said music, writing and other creative work help create the festival’s atmosphere.
Suvendu Adhikari urged Durga Puja organisers not to permit stalls using “Sharodotsab” instead of “Durga Puja.”
He made the appeal during an Assembly discussion on Thursday and directed it at stalls run by Communists.
Adhikari argued that the celebration should be identified as Durga Puja rather than by the broader Bengali term.
The word “Sharodotsab” was coined by Rabindranath Tagore in his literary works, according to the report.
CPI(M) state secretary Mohammad Salim criticised Adhikari, saying the festival involves people from all walks of life and includes creative activities.
- Who
- West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and CPI(M) state secretary Mohammad Salim are the main figures mentioned.
- What
- Adhikari told Durga Puja organisers not to allow stalls using “Sharodotsab” instead of “Durga Puja,” prompting criticism from Salim.
- When
- The directive was issued on Thursday during an Assembly discussion; no date was specified.
- Where
- The remarks were made in the West Bengal Assembly and concerned Durga Puja organisers in West Bengal.
- Why
- Adhikari apparently wanted the festival described in explicitly religious terms as “Durga Puja,” while Salim defended its broader cultural and public character.
Suvendu Adhikari’s Position
CPI(M)’s Response
How the festival should be named
Suvendu Adhikari’s Position
Adhikari urged organisers to require the term “Durga Puja” and reject stalls using “Sharodotsab,” particularly those run by Communists.
CPI(M)’s Response
Mohammad Salim said the festival involves people from all walks of life and that its broader cultural expression gives the puja its festive character.
Meaning of “Sharodotsab”
Suvendu Adhikari’s Position
Adhikari objected to using “Sharodotsab” in place of “Durga Puja” on stalls.
CPI(M)’s Response
Salim defended the term and said Adhikari appeared unaware that Rabindranath Tagore had used it in his writing.
- Directive
- Adhikari asked organisers not to permit stalls using “Sharodotsab” instead of “Durga Puja.”
- Target
- The appeal specifically referred to stalls run by Communists.
- Setting
- The remarks came during a discussion on a bill in the Assembly.
- Alternative term
- “Sharodotsab” is described as a Bengali word used by Rabindranath Tagore.
- Criticism
- Mohammad Salim, the CPI(M) state secretary, criticised the chief minister’s position.
- Cultural activities
- Salim said music albums, writing and other creative work contribute to the festive atmosphere.