📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Dipankan001
Religion
Controversial 'Buy Biryani from Hindus' Posters Spark Outcry Ahead of Durga Puja in West Bengal
✍️ India Today
🗓 13 Oct 2026, 11:32 AM
👁 8
Posters urging people to buy biryani only from Hindu vendors have ignited a controversy in West Bengal as Durga Puja approaches, drawing criticism from community leaders and social media users.
A series of posters bearing the slogan "Eat biryani, but buy from Hindus" have caused a public row in West Bengal in the run‑up to the Durga Puja festivities. The campaign, which appears to target food vendors based on religion, quickly attracted criticism on social media platforms and from local community organisations, who described the message as communal and divisive.
Local Hindu and Muslim business associations have voiced concerns that the posters could fuel tension during a period traditionally marked by communal harmony and cultural celebration. Several civic groups called for the removal of the material and urged authorities to intervene to prevent any escalation of sentiment.
Police officials confirmed that they are reviewing the matter and have asked the publisher of the posters to provide details of the source. While no legal action has been announced yet, officials indicated that any content deemed to incite communal disharmony would be subject to existing laws.
The controversy emerges as Durga Puja, one of the largest festivals in the state, draws millions of visitors and a surge in food‑related commerce. Stakeholders hope that the episode will be resolved swiftly to preserve the festive spirit and ensure that commercial activities remain inclusive.
Local Hindu and Muslim business associations have voiced concerns that the posters could fuel tension during a period traditionally marked by communal harmony and cultural celebration. Several civic groups called for the removal of the material and urged authorities to intervene to prevent any escalation of sentiment.
Police officials confirmed that they are reviewing the matter and have asked the publisher of the posters to provide details of the source. While no legal action has been announced yet, officials indicated that any content deemed to incite communal disharmony would be subject to existing laws.
The controversy emerges as Durga Puja, one of the largest festivals in the state, draws millions of visitors and a surge in food‑related commerce. Stakeholders hope that the episode will be resolved swiftly to preserve the festive spirit and ensure that commercial activities remain inclusive.