Bageshwar Baba’s ‘Pakhandi’ Remark Sparks Bengal Row Over Durga Puja Food Traditions
BH24 Breaking News
Bageshwar Dham chief Dhirendra Krishna Shastri has sparked a major controversy in West Bengal after his remarks on Bengali food traditions during Durga Puja. During a recent programme in Bengal, Shastri criticised the consumption of fish and meat during the festival. Bageshwar Baba reportedly described those eating non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja as “pakhandi”, triggering sharp reactions across the state.
Bageshwar Baba’s Remarks Trigger Backlash
Shastri also appealed to people to avoid selling or keeping non-vegetarian food near Durga Puja idols. His comments have opened a fresh debate over religion, personal food choices and Bengal’s distinct cultural traditions.
The remarks quickly drew political reactions. Congress leaders in Kolkata have filed a police complaint against Shastri and demanded action over his comments. The complaint alleges that Bageshwar Baba’s statements hurt the religious and cultural sentiments of Bengalis.
Bengal Leaders Defend Bengali Food Culture
The controversy has also crossed political lines. Bengal BJP leaders have distanced themselves from the remarks and defended the freedom of people to follow their own food traditions. BJP state chief Samik Bhattacharya said outsiders cannot decide what Bengalis should eat. Other leaders also pointed to the long-standing presence of fish and meat in Bengal’s religious and cultural traditions.
The controversy comes just weeks before Durga Puja, when Kolkata and other parts of Bengal prepare for one of the region’s biggest festivals. With political parties now reacting to the remarks, the debate over Bengali identity, religious customs and food choices is likely to remain in focus as the celebrations approach.
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