Kolkata: West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh has defended the consumption of non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja, saying it is deeply rooted in Bengal’s cultural and religious traditions and should not be treated as a controversy.
Ghosh’s remarks came in response to comments by Bageshwar Dham head priest Dhirendra Shastri, popularly known as Bageshwar Baba, who had appealed to Bengalis to avoid non-vegetarian food during the Durga Puja celebrations. Shastri had also criticised those who consume meat during religious occasions.
Speaking to reporters in Kolkata, Ghosh pointed to Bengal’s long-standing tradition of animal sacrifice during Durga Puja. He said goat meat offered during such rituals is traditionally consumed as prasad and argued that the practice forms part of the state’s cultural heritage.
Ghosh also stressed that individuals should have the freedom to decide what they eat. While saying that he personally eats only fish, the minister maintained that dietary choices should not be imposed on people.
Referring to the debate over vegetarianism, Ghosh said saints may promote vegetarian food as part of their views on health and lifestyle, but such advice should not be used to dictate the food habits of an entire community.
The minister also criticised attempts by governments to influence people's dietary choices, arguing that food preferences are a matter of personal freedom.
Ghosh further raised questions over government funding for community Durga Puja celebrations. He said public funds should not unnecessarily be used to support such events, while acknowledging that assistance could be considered for puja committees in rural areas that genuinely lack resources.
His comments come as the debate over traditional Bengali food practices and religious customs gains attention ahead of Durga Puja, with political leaders attempting to balance religious sentiments with the region’s distinctive cultural traditions.
