Political Debate Intensifies Over Food Choices Ahead of Durga Puja in West Bengal

As Durga Puja approaches, a political storm brews in West Bengal over dietary choices, sparked by Dhirendra Krishna Shastri's call for vegetarianism during the festival. This has led to sharp responses from various political factions, including the CPM and BJP, who emphasize the importance of cultural traditions and personal freedom. The debate has evolved into a significant discussion on the intersection of culture and individual preferences, suggesting that this issue will remain prominent in the political arena as the festival nears.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 8, 2026, 10:50 IST

Political Tensions Rise in Kolkata

Kolkata: As Durga Puja approaches, a heated political discussion regarding dietary preferences has emerged in West Bengal. The controversy was sparked by Dhirendra Krishna Shastri from Bageshwar Dham, who urged people to avoid non-vegetarian food during the festival and Navratri, leading to significant backlash.

Statements from Baba Bageshwar

According to reports, during a Hanuman Katha event in Liluah, Howrah, Shastri expressed his disapproval of non-vegetarian food being served around Durga Puja pandals. He called on the community to maintain a vegetarian diet during Navratri, voicing his dissatisfaction with meat consumption.

This statement has ignited a political debate in Bengal, extending beyond mere food choices to encompass cultural traditions and individual preferences.

CPM Leaders Respond

CPM leader and lawyer Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya sharply criticized Shastri's remarks, asserting that individuals from other states are attempting to interfere with West Bengal's rich cultural heritage.

Bhattacharya emphasized that the state's culinary practices are deeply rooted in tradition and should not be dictated by outsiders. He questioned the necessity of inviting such figures to Bengal.

BJP Joins the Fray

Interestingly, the response to Shastri's appeal is not limited to the CPM or opposition parties; the BJP in Bengal has also expressed differing views.

West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya stated that no saint or political party has the authority to dictate what individuals should eat in their homes. He highlighted the significance of fish and meat in Bengal's culinary culture, advocating for personal choice.

Why This Issue Matters in Bengal Politics

Fish and other non-vegetarian dishes have long been integral to West Bengal's food culture. Consequently, the call for vegetarianism ahead of a major festival like Durga Puja has intensified political discussions.

During the assembly elections, similar political rhetoric surrounding food choices was prevalent, and now, as Durga Puja nears, this topic has resurfaced as a focal point in political discourse.

Cultural Identity vs. Personal Preference

This controversy highlights a clash between calls for dietary restrictions during religious events and the political framing of these issues as matters of personal choice and cultural identity in Bengal.

Currently, various political reactions are emerging in response to Shastri's comments, suggesting that this topic may continue to gain traction as Durga Puja approaches.