Ram to Kali, Veg to Mutton: With Samik as Boss, BJP Gets Belated Image Makeover in Bengal
In a significant shift that reflects a deeper cultural recalibration, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal, under the leadership of Samik Bhattacharya, is attempting a belated but bold image makeover. From focusing primarily on Lord Ram to invoking Goddess Kali, and softening its vegetarian-first identity to embrace Bengal’s love for mutton and fish, the party is working hard to localize its appeal.
Why This Makeover Matters
The BJP has struggled to secure sustained electoral success in culturally nuanced Bengal, where identity, cuisine, and religious symbols play a decisive role in public sentiment. In previous elections, the party's high-decibel campaigns emphasizing North Indian cultural symbols failed to resonate deeply with the average Bengali voter.
Under Samik Bhattacharya’s leadership, the party is now:
Celebrating Kali over Ram as the cultural anchor
Acknowledging regional culinary tastes, including mutton, fish, and rice
Rebranding its narrative from nationalistic overtones to local pride and inclusivity
Samik Bhattacharya: The Architect of Change
Samik Bhattacharya, known for his grassroots connectivity and pragmatic politics, has become the face of BJP’s fresh Bengal strategy. His understanding of local sentiments has steered the party toward a more regionally aligned, culturally sensitive political language.
“We are not here to impose, but to integrate,” said Bhattacharya in a recent interview, emphasizing the need to respect Bengal’s cultural ecosystem.
From Cultural Disconnect to Integration
The earlier portrayal of BJP as a party indifferent to Bengal’s traditions—promoting vegetarianism in a fish-loving state, and emphasizing Lord Ram over Goddess Kali—was widely criticized as tone-deaf. Samik’s team has taken steps to:
Participate in Durga and Kali Puja celebrations
Celebrate local heroes and reformers
Adopt Bengali slogans and dialects in rallies and campaigns
Encourage cadre to connect over community meals and local cuisine
Challenges Ahead
Despite the shift, BJP still faces trust deficits and ideological skepticism in Bengal. The makeover, though strategic, is seen by critics as opportunistic. TMC leaders and political observers warn that superficial cultural adoption may not be enough to overcome deeply entrenched political narratives.
However, the party’s grassroots work, including outreach in rural areas and youth engagement, is gaining traction.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why is BJP changing its image in Bengal?
To align better with Bengal’s unique cultural identity, the BJP is moving away from its typical North Indian narratives to connect with local traditions and values.
Q2: What changes has Samik Bhattacharya brought in?
He has shifted focus from Ram to Kali, embraced local cuisine, and prioritized cultural integration over imposition, offering a more Bengal-friendly face of BJP.
Q3: Why is the Kali vs Ram symbolism significant in Bengal politics?
Goddess Kali holds deep spiritual and cultural importance in Bengal, unlike Lord Ram, who is more central to North Indian political narratives.
Q4: Will this makeover help BJP win more votes?
While it may improve BJP’s acceptance, success will depend on how deeply and consistently the party follows through on this localized strategy.
Q5: How is this makeover being received?
Public reaction is mixed. Some see it as genuine political evolution, while others criticize it as a delayed and tactical shift to gain votes.
Published : On 6th July
Published : Pankaj
www.vizzve.com || www.vizzveservices.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook || Linkedin || Instagram
🛡 Powered by Vizzve Financial
RBI-Registered Loan Partner | 10 Lakh+ Customers | ₹600 Cr+ Disbursed