Rahul Gandhi's Tribute to Shivaji Sparks Controversy Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has sparked a major controversy.
Rahul Gandhi's Tribute to Shivaji Sparks Controversy Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has sparked a major controversy.He has been criticized by the BJP and other parties for offering ‘shraddhanjali’ to the legendary Maratha king on his birth anniversary.
The 395th birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country, with people across all walks of life, including politicians and celebrities, extending their tributes to the founder of the Maratha kingdom. However, Gandhi found himself in controversy with his comments on this occasion.
In his tribute on social media, the Congress MP offered his ‘Shraddhanjali’ (homage) to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj instead of using the term ‘Adaranjali’ (respectful tribute), which is typically used on such occasions.
In his X post, Gandhi said, “On the occasion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s birth anniversary, I salute him and pay my humble Shraddhanjali. With his courage and bravery, he inspired us to raise our voices with fearlessness and total dedication. His life will always be a source of inspiration for all of us.”
The word ‘Shraddhanjali’ evoked criticism with the BJP accusing Gandhi of showing disrespect to the Maratha king. BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar said, “Rahul Gandhi has paid homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, but tributes are paid on the occasion of birth anniversary. Rahul Gandhi is showing disrespect to the great men of Maharashtra and the country. If he does not withdraw this post, he may have to face legal action.”
Sambhaji Chhatrapati, the descendent of Shivaji Maharaj, too expressed his displeasure by saying, “India’s leader of opposition @RahulGandhi Ji, does anyone offer Shradhanjali on Jayanti??”
However, newly appointed Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal has accused the BJP of creating unnecessary controversy. “Rahul Gandhi wanted to say a humble tribute in English. That also means homage. But the BJP should not create unnecessary controversy by twisting words,” he said.
