Political Controversy Erupts Over PM Modi's Tribute to Ramakrishna Paramahamsa
A simple tribute posted on social media by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has escalated into a significant political controversy, highlighting deep-seated cultural and regional sensitivities. The incident revolves around the birth anniversary of the revered 19th-century saint, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
Modi's Tribute and the Immediate Backlash
On February 19, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to pay his respects on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. In his post, the Prime Minister wrote, "Swami Ramakrishna Paramahansa Ji" and praised the saint's spiritual teachings and messages as an eternal source of inspiration for humanity.
However, this gesture was met with swift and sharp criticism from political opponents. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee responded with a post expressing shock, accusing the Prime Minister of displaying "aggressive cultural insensitivity" towards a great figure of Bengal. She emphasized that the day marks the "janmatithi of Yugavatara Sri Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsadeva," using honorifics common in Bengali tradition.
Amit Malviya Joins the Fray
The controversy intensified when Amit Malviya, a prominent BJP leader and social media head, entered the debate. Malviya countered Banerjee's criticism by pointing out what he termed as her "ignorance". He clarified that Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa is also respectfully referred to as Sri Ramakrishna and "Thakur" by his disciples, defending the Prime Minister's phrasing while highlighting the saint's universal respect across India.
This exchange has brought to the forefront not just a disagreement over nomenclature but deeper political undercurrents. The debate touches on issues of regional identity, cultural appropriation, and the political use of religious figures in public discourse.
Broader Implications and Public Reaction
The incident underscores how even well-intentioned gestures in the digital age can become flashpoints for political contention. Supporters of the Prime Minister argue that his tribute was sincere and respectful, aimed at honoring a saint whose teachings transcend regional boundaries. Critics, however, view it as part of a pattern where cultural nuances are overlooked, potentially alienating specific communities.
Public reaction on social media has been divided, with many users debating the appropriateness of the titles used and the political motivations behind the criticism. This controversy is likely to resonate in the political landscape, especially in Bengal, where figures like Ramakrishna Paramahamsa hold significant cultural and spiritual importance.
As the debate continues, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required in public tributes to revered personalities in a diverse country like India. The episode highlights how spirituality and politics often intersect, with each side leveraging historical and cultural symbols to advance their narratives.
