Political Storm Hits Kolkata on Swami Vivekananda's Birth Anniversary
A heated political confrontation erupted in Kolkata on Monday during celebrations marking the 163rd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. The dispute quickly spiraled into a series of accusations and counter-accusations among major political parties in West Bengal.
Posters Spark Controversy at Simla Street
The controversy centered around posters featuring Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee that appeared in front of Swami Vivekananda's ancestral home on Simla Street. The posters referred to Banerjee as "Yuvaraj," a term that immediately drew criticism from opposition parties.
Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar responded strongly to the posters. He declared that Swami Vivekananda remains the only true "Yuvaraj" for Bengal. Majumdar warned that the people of Bengal would respond to what he called political arrogance in the coming days. He made pointed remarks about alleged criminal activities in the area where Vivekananda was born.
Chief Minister's Tribute and Message
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took to social media to honor Swami Vivekananda's legacy. She emphasized his teachings of patriotism, social service, and communal harmony. Banerjee described Vivekananda's philosophy as a guiding light that continues to inspire her governance.
"On the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, the symbol of India's indigenous spiritual consciousness, I offer my respectful salutations to him," Banerjee wrote in her post. She highlighted how Vivekananda's path to harmony among all religions forms the foundation of Bengal's cultural identity.
The Chief Minister also noted Vivekananda's belief in youth as nation-builders. She affirmed her government's commitment to empowering young people through education, skills development, and opportunity creation.
Opposition Leaders Voice Strong Criticism
Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari led a rally in front of Vivekananda's house where he paid floral tributes. Adhikari launched sharp attacks against the ruling party, claiming that thieves operate freely in Bengal. He accused the government of destroying constitutional sanctity and losing moral authority.
"They destroyed the sanctity of the Constitution," Adhikari stated. "They lost the moral right to uphold Swamiji's spirit."
Amid Conflict, Moments of Political Courtesy
Despite the heated exchanges, some moments of political decorum emerged. Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya and TMC senior leader Shashi Panja exchanged greetings during the celebrations. Panja emphasized the annual tradition of celebrating Vivekananda's birthday with an open mind.
"We come here every year with an open mind to celebrate Vivekananda's birthday," Panja said. "We pray for unity and harmony. We uphold the spirit of service which Vivekananda taught us."
Abhishek Banerjee's Response and Reflection
Abhishek Banerjee visited Simla Street in the morning and later shared his thoughts on social media. He focused on Vivekananda's message of universal brotherhood and service to humanity.
"Swamiji reminded us that to serve humanity is to serve the divine," Banerjee wrote. "At a time when divisions are amplified and identities weaponized, Swamiji's message of universal brotherhood and harmony among faiths stands as a timeless guide."
The political clash overshadowed what is traditionally a day of spiritual reflection and national pride in Bengal. All parties claimed to honor Vivekananda's legacy while using the occasion to score political points against their opponents.
The incident highlights how political symbolism remains deeply contested in West Bengal's charged political atmosphere. Each party sought to position itself as the true inheritor of Vivekananda's ideals while questioning their opponents' commitment to those same principles.
