On September 10, 2026, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari visited the Kalighat Temple in Kolkata to offer prayers to Goddess Kali for Kaushiki Amavasya. This day holds significant importance in the Sanatan culture, as it marks a period of special worship in various major temples across the state, including Kalighat and Tarapith.

During his visit, Adhikari engaged in the traditional ritual by partaking in the temple’s bhog, which included offerings of fish head, fried fish, and basanti pulao. Traditionally, fish and meat are integral components of the offerings to the goddess, which are later distributed among the devotees present at the temple.

Context of Dietary Controversy

The Chief Minister’s visit occurred in the backdrop of remarks made by Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, the chief of Bageshwar Dham. Shastri had requested Bengali Hindus to refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food during the Durga Puja celebrations, labelling those who did as “pakhandi.” This assertion stirred a significant debate regarding dietary choices in the context of religious practices.

When questioned about Shastri’s statements, Adhikari acknowledged the religious figure’s right to express his personal views. He remarked that individuals have the autonomy to decide whether to adhere to such opinions. “A saint has expressed his opinion. Those who want to accept it will accept it; those who do not will not,” Adhikari explained.

In his interactions, Adhikari also shared insights into his own dietary habits tied to his religious observance. He noted that while he adheres to sattvik food practices during certain festivals, he also consumes non-vegetarian offerings, such as goat meat, when worshipping Goddess Kali.

Political Implications and Responses

This controversy surrounding dietary choices holds political significance, particularly in West Bengal where discussions about food traditions can strongly resonate. The West Bengal unit of the BJP has opposed any external authority attempting to dictate local eating habits, emphasising that decisions regarding diet should remain with the individual.

State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya reassured that the people of Bengal would continue their traditional consumption of fish and meat. He asserted that no religious preacher has the authority to impose dietary restrictions on the populace.

BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari remarked that Adhikari participating in the traditional fish bhog is representative of Bengal’s cultural heritage and religious practices. Such events underscore the state’s intricate relationship with its culinary traditions and religious beliefs.

The ongoing controversy has sparked protests in various parts of West Bengal. In response to the unrest, Adhikari instructed the Kolkata Police commissioner to take necessary actions against individuals who allegedly desecrated Shastri’s images during the demonstrations. This reflects the intensity of the discourse surrounding food practices and their intersection with religious identities in the region.

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