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Politics
MNS chief Raj Thackeray’s Chhath Puja remark sparks BJP demand for reply in Bihar
✍️ Amar Ujala · Bihar
🗓 15 Nov 2026, 07:15 PM
👁 26
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena leader Raj Thackeray’s remarks on the Chhath festival have provoked a political row in Bihar, with the state BJP seeking clarification.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray sparked controversy after describing the Chhattisgarh‑origin Chhath Puja in a dismissive manner during a recent interview. His comments, which were interpreted as belittling a deeply revered festival in Bihar, quickly drew criticism from regional leaders.
Bihar’s state unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) formally demanded an explanation from Thackeray, stating that any disrespect towards cultural traditions would be unacceptable. Party spokespersons said they would approach the MNS leadership for a clarification and warned that such remarks could strain inter‑state relations.
The issue has ignited a broader debate on the sensitivity of religious observances in Indian politics. While Thackeray has not yet issued a public apology, his party’s spokesperson indicated that the remarks were taken out of context. Observers note that the episode underscores the need for political figures to exercise caution when commenting on regional festivals.
No further legal action has been reported, and the matter remains confined to political discourse, with both parties awaiting a definitive response from the MNS chief.
Bihar’s state unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) formally demanded an explanation from Thackeray, stating that any disrespect towards cultural traditions would be unacceptable. Party spokespersons said they would approach the MNS leadership for a clarification and warned that such remarks could strain inter‑state relations.
The issue has ignited a broader debate on the sensitivity of religious observances in Indian politics. While Thackeray has not yet issued a public apology, his party’s spokesperson indicated that the remarks were taken out of context. Observers note that the episode underscores the need for political figures to exercise caution when commenting on regional festivals.
No further legal action has been reported, and the matter remains confined to political discourse, with both parties awaiting a definitive response from the MNS chief.