Mamata Banerjee accuses PM Modi of cultural insensitivity after his tribute refers to Ramakrishna as “Swami” instead of “Thakur”
New Delhi: A political controversy broke out after Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to Ramakrishna Paramahamsa as “Swami Ramakrishna” in a social media tribute on his birth anniversary. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly objected to the use of the word “Swami” and accused the Prime Minister of showing cultural insensitivity toward Bengal’s most respected spiritual figures.
The Prime Minister had posted a message on X (formerly Twitter) to pay tribute to Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. In his post, he said that he paid respectful tributes to Swami Ramakrishna Paramahamsa on his birth anniversary. He added that the way Ramakrishna connected spirituality and devotion with public welfare would continue to benefit humanity in every era, and that his life and teachings would always remain inspiring.
While the message was meant as a tribute, Mamata Banerjee said the way the saint’s name was written was incorrect.
Mamata Banerjee’s Strong Response
Reacting on X, Mamata Banerjee wrote that she was “shocked again.” She said that once again the Prime Minister had shown cultural insensitivity toward the great figures of Bengal. She pointed out that the day marked the birth anniversary of Yugavatara Sri Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsadeva and said that while trying to honour the saint, the Prime Minister added an unprecedented and improper prefix — “Swami” — to his name.
She further explained that Sri Ramakrishna has always been widely revered as “Thakur,” which means God. She said that after his death, his ascetic disciples formed the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, and those monks were called “Swami” according to Indian traditions. However, she stressed that the Master himself continued to be referred to as Thakur. She clarified that the title “Swami” was meant for his disciples in the Ramakrishna Order.
Mamata Banerjee also explained the spiritual tradition of the Ramakrishna Order, saying the holy trinity is known as Thakur–Ma–Swamiji. She said Thakur refers to Sri Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsadeva, Ma refers to Ma Sarada, and Swamiji refers to Swami Vivekananda.
In her post, she urged the Prime Minister not to create new prefixes and suffixes for the great Renaissance figures of Bengal who helped shape modern India.
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Cultural and Political Debate
The issue quickly turned into a political debate between the BJP and the TMC. BJP leaders defended the Prime Minister, saying that the term “Swami” is commonly used across India as a mark of respect for spiritual leaders and that there was no intention to disrespect anyone.
However, TMC leaders backed Mamata Banerjee and said that Bengal’s cultural and spiritual traditions should be properly understood and respected.
The controversy once again highlights the ongoing political rivalry between the BJP and the TMC in West Bengal. What started as a tribute message has now become another flashpoint in the larger political battle between the two parties.
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khushisikarwar is an award-winning journalist and content creator who thrives on telling stories that matter. As a key contributor to Newsisland, [she] focus on cultural commentary, providing readers with thought-provoking insights.
