West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has suggested that Ram Navami be celebrated alongside Durga Puja, highlighting the mythological connection between the two festivals. She noted that Lord Ram worshipped Goddess Durga during autumn to seek her blessings before defeating Ravana, a period known as Akal Bodhan, which aligns with the timing of Durga Puja.
Banerjee emphasized that while she supports peaceful celebrations of Ram Navami, any attempts to incite communal tension will not be tolerated. She urged all communities to maintain peace during religious events and cautioned against actions that could lead to unrest.
Addressing the media, she stated, “We follow Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda. We respect all religions. So let everyone follow his or her religious programmes peacefully.”
Banerjee also criticized groups attempting to create communal tension under the guise of religious celebrations, labeling such actions as deliberate provocations. She reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to protecting the interests of all communities and maintaining harmony in the state.
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In response, BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi accused Banerjee of singling out Hindu festivals and disrespecting Indian culture by suggesting that celebrations of Hindu festivals lead to violence.
The discussion around the timing and manner of celebrating Ram Navami continues to evoke varied responses from different political and community leaders in West Bengal.
