A Vatican-inspired Durga Puja pandal in Ranchi, the Capital city of Jharkhand, has triggered controversy after the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) objected to its design, alleging that it hurt Hindu sentiments.
The pandal, set up by RR Sporting Club, featured tall pillars, domes, and sculptures resembling European cathedrals. Inside, above the platform housing the Durga idol, framed portraits of Jesus, Mary, and other Christian figures were displayed. Visuals of the pandal quickly went viral on social media, prompting criticism from Hindu organisations.
Following the backlash, the organisers announced modifications to the structure. They removed crosses from statues and replaced Christian images with depictions of Hindu gods and goddesses.
However, the organisers said that the pandal was inspired by a Kolkata pandal created in 2022. They said that the Rs 70-lakh structure was meant to promote harmony.
“Every year we create a unique pandal, the best in the city. This one too was built to showcase creativity, not to offend anyone.
Unfortunately, some people are trying to politicise it,” said a member of RR Sporting.
On the other hand, the VHP termed it as “a dangerous experiment” intended to mislead tribal communities and demanded an investigation into its funding and concept.
BJP leader and Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi also weighed in, saying while artistic designs are welcome, religious sentiments must be respected. In a post on X, he urged the committee to “rectify the mistake” and said Durga Puja symbolises unity and devotion for crores of Hindus.
The JMM, however, downplayed the controversy. The party said that pandals are primarily built to attract devotees and should not be politicised. “Maa Durga remains the centre of worship. Questioning the rituals is one thing, but raising objections to the structure is unnecessary,” said a JMM functionary.
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