Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) alliance during a public rally in Muzaffarpur, accusing them of insulting the revered Chhath festival and its deity, Chhathi Maiyya, for political gain. The remarks have ignited a fresh wave of controversy in poll-bound Bihar, where cultural and religious sentiments run deep.
Addressing his first rally in the state following the Chhath Puja celebrations, Modi condemned recent comments made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who had referred to the festival as “drama” and criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for allegedly using religious events to garner votes. “When your son wants to make Chhath popular across the world, the Congress and RJD are insulting Chhathi Maiyya. Can anyone insult Chhathi Maiyya just for votes?” Modi asked the crowd, adding, “Will Bihar and India tolerate it? Will mothers who fast on Chhath tolerate it?”
The Prime Minister emphasized the BJP’s efforts to elevate Chhath Puja to global recognition, including a proposal to secure UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage status for the festival. He contrasted this with what he described as the “shameless” behavior of the Opposition, asserting that their comments were an affront to the cultural pride of Bihar.
Modi also framed the issue within a broader narrative of social justice, stating that dynastic parties could not accept that a person from a backward background had risen to power through democratic means and the blessings of Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Constitution.
The Congress and RJD have yet to issue formal responses to the Prime Minister’s remarks, but the controversy has already triggered sharp reactions from BJP leaders and supporters across the state. Social media platforms have seen a surge in posts defending Chhath Puja and condemning the Opposition’s alleged disrespect.
Political analysts suggest that the issue could become a flashpoint in the upcoming assembly elections, with cultural identity and religious reverence playing a significant role in voter sentiment. Chhath Puja, a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God and observed primarily by women, holds immense emotional and spiritual significance in Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh.
As the campaign heats up, Modi’s remarks are expected to galvanize BJP’s base while putting the Congress-RJD alliance on the defensive over cultural sensitivities.
