The consumption of fish bhog by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari at Kolkata’s historic Kalighat temple has ignited a political and cultural discussion. This incident occurred against a backdrop of ongoing discourse regarding non-vegetarianism during the Durga Puja festival. Adhikari visited the temple on Thursday evening, coinciding with the significant occasion of Kaushiki Amavasya, a day of devout observance for Shakta Hindus.

A video from his visit depicted the leader sitting on the temple floor enjoying bhog that comprised a large fish head, fried fish, and basanti pulao. Fish has long been a customary offering at the Kalighat temple, which includes bhog featuring fish, and in some instances, goat meat that is part of the temple’s religious rituals.

The episode comes in the wake of remarks made by Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, head of Bageshwar Dham, who urged Bengali Hindus to refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food during the Durga Puja festivities. Shastri controversially referred to those who did not comply as “pakhandi,” or hypocritical.

Adhikari Responds to Controversy

During his visit to Kalighat, Adhikari was questioned regarding Shastri’s comments. He acknowledged that the preacher was entitled to his opinion but emphasised individual freedom in dietary decisions. Adhikari stated, “A saint has expressed his opinion. Those who want to accept it will accept it; those who do not will not.”

He further referenced his own religious customs to illustrate the diversity within Hindu traditions. “I am a Sanatani Hindu. On Mahashtami, I worship Maa Durga with sattvik food. During Kartik month, I also eat sattvik food. Simultaneously, I partake in non-vegetarian offerings such as goat meat given to Maa Kali,” he added.

This incident highlights the complexity of religious practices in West Bengal, where food choices have become intertwined with regional identity. The BJP’s stance has been to resist external religious interpretation regarding dietary regulations within the state, advocating for the preservation of Bengali culinary traditions.

BJP Defends Traditions and Cultural Identity

As the situation unfolded, the BJP’s state unit reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the culinary heritage of Bengal. State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya articulated that Bengalis would continue to consume both fish and meat, stressing that dietary choices should not be dictated by external figures.

Meanwhile, BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari defended Adhikari’s involvement in the traditional fish bhog, stating that it was reflective of Bengal’s faith and traditions. In a post on X, he said, “Let the controversy end where it should. At Kalighat, CM @SuvenduWB takes part in Maa Kali’s traditional Fish Bhog — respecting Bengal’s faith, traditions and way of life.”

The ongoing debate surrounding Shastri’s comments has even led to protests in various parts of West Bengal. In response, Adhikari had instructed the Kolkata Police commissioner to take action against individuals who allegedly burned photographs of Shastri during protests. Consequently, this dispute has transcended mere dietary choices.

It has become part of a broader discussion regarding who has the authority to define religious practices in Bengal. Suvendu Adhikari’s act of consuming fish bhog at Kalighat serves as a vivid representation of Bengali cultural practices amid a heated political debate, illustrating the interplay of food, faith, and identity in contemporary West Bengal.

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