Mamata Banerjee Criticises PM Modi Over ‘Swami’ Prefix for Ramakrishna

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his reference to 19th-century mystic saint Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, accusing him of cultural insensitivity in a post shared on social media.

The controversy began after the Prime Minister paid tribute to the revered spiritual figure on his birth anniversary. In his message, he used the prefix “Swami” while referring to Ramakrishna, a usage that drew objections from leaders of the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Mamata Banerjee Calls the Usage “Improper”

In a post on X, Banerjee expressed shock over what she described as repeated cultural insensitivity toward iconic figures from Bengal. She stated that Ramakrishna Paramahamsa is traditionally revered as “Sri Ramakrishna,” “Thakur,” or “Paramahamsa Dev,” and argued that adding the prefix “Swami” was inappropriate in the Bengali cultural context.

She emphasised that the saint holds deep spiritual significance in Bengal and is regarded by many followers as a divine incarnation.

Trinamool Leaders Echo Objections

Several TMC leaders supported Banerjee’s criticism. Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh stated that the term “Swami” is typically used in different spiritual contexts and is not commonly used to address Ramakrishna Paramahamsa in Bengal.

He highlighted that in the state’s cultural and devotional tradition, the saint is widely known as “Thakur Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Dev.” He also urged the Prime Minister to correct the reference.

Cultural Sensitivity and Regional Traditions

The issue underscores how regional traditions shape the ways spiritual figures are addressed and remembered. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa remains one of Bengal’s most revered spiritual icons, whose teachings influenced global spiritual movements and inspired figures such as Swami Vivekananda.

Differences in terminology, while seemingly minor, can carry cultural and emotional significance for devotees and regional communities.

Political Context Ahead of Elections

The exchange comes at a time of renewed political friction between the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), particularly with the West Bengal Assembly elections approaching.

The TMC has previously accused the BJP of being insensitive to Bengal’s cultural identity, while BJP leaders have rejected such claims.

The latest controversy has reignited political debate in the state, with cultural identity and regional pride once again becoming part of the larger political discourse.

Tribute and Public Reaction

Prime Minister Modi’s tribute was intended to honour the spiritual legacy of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa on his birth anniversary. However, the wording sparked debate on social media and in political circles.

The incident highlights how cultural references in public messaging can become politically charged, especially in regions where spiritual traditions are closely tied to identity and heritage.

As discussions continue, the episode reflects the intersection of culture, religion, and politics in contemporary public discourse.