Archive · 17 Sep 2026
Row Over Hindu Rashtra Theme at Howrah Ganesh Puja
A Ganesh Puja event was organized in Howrah with a political and religious theme.
It showed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Lord Ganesha during a scene called “Chai Pe Charcha.”
The theme referred to the idea of a “Hindu Rashtra.”
Arup Roy objected to the event or its theme.
Om Prakash Singh, a BJP district secretary, disagreed with Roy.
Singh said different puja themes are common in West Bengal.
He also said he did not know who organized this particular event.
The district BJP may discuss the matter and decide whether action is needed.
A Howrah Ganesh Puja featured a theme involving “Hindu Rashtra,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Lord Ganesha.
The event included a depiction of Modi and Lord Ganesha in a “Chai Pe Charcha” setting.
Arup Roy raised objections to the theme, prompting a public dispute.
Howrah District BJP Secretary Om Prakash Singh said he saw nothing wrong with the event.
Singh said the district BJP would discuss the matter and act if necessary.
- Who
- The event involved Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Lord Ganesha; Arup Roy criticized it, while Howrah District BJP Secretary Om Prakash Singh defended it.
- What
- A Howrah Ganesh Puja featured a “Hindu Rashtra” theme and a “Chai Pe Charcha” depiction of Modi and Lord Ganesha.
- Where
- Howrah, West Bengal.
- Why
- The event became controversial because of its Hindu-nationalist theme and its combination of political and religious imagery.
Criticism of the Theme
Defense of the Theme
Political-religious imagery at a puja
Criticism of the Theme
Arup Roy raised objections to the event, contributing to the dispute over its “Hindu Rashtra” theme.
Defense of the Theme
Om Prakash Singh said he saw nothing wrong with the theme, noting that West Bengal pujas often use different themes.
Responsibility and possible action
Criticism of the Theme
The objections led to calls for scrutiny of the event and its organizers.
Defense of the Theme
Singh said he did not know who organized the event but added that the district BJP would discuss it and take action if considered necessary.
- Event
- Ganesh Puja
- Location
- Howrah, West Bengal
- Theme
- “Hindu Rashtra”
- Featured depiction
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Lord Ganesha in a “Chai Pe Charcha” setting
- Criticism
- Arup Roy objected to the event or its theme
- BJP response
- Om Prakash Singh said he saw no fault in it
- Possible next step
- The district BJP will discuss the matter and may take action