A Needless Controversy over ‘Bharat Mata’
1. Background: World Environment Day in Kerala
Observed on June 5 every year.
Kerala celebrates it with mass public participation and sapling plantations.
Promotes environmental awareness and commitment.
2. Proposal from Raj Bhavan
Venue: Raj Bhavan was selected for this year’s function.
Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar agreed to inaugurate.
Raj Bhavan proposed a new practice: pay floral tribute to a painting.
3. The Controversial Painting
Governor’s office sent a photograph of the painting:
Depicted Bharat Mata sitting on a lion.
Held a saffron flag, resembling RSS flag.
Background included a non-Indian Republic map.
Agriculture Minister's office found it improper for a government function.
Governor insisted on the image’s inclusion.
4. Government’s Response
Venue was shifted to the Secretariat.
All dignitaries attended except the Governor.
In a separate function at Raj Bhavan, the Governor:
Glorified the saffron flag-holding Bharat Mata.
Called it the symbol of India.
Criticised the Kerala government for not accepting his version.
5. Wider Political Context
Governor–State clashes under BJP government have occurred in other states too.
Even Supreme Court had to intervene in some cases.
This time, Bharat Mata became part of the controversy.
6. Concept of Bharat Mata: Broad & Dynamic
Historically used during the freedom struggle by various groups.
Different meanings based on ideology, nationality, worldview.
RSS version includes:
Saffron flag,
Lion mount,
‘Akhand Bharat’ map,
Militant and aggressive nationalism.
No single image can be imposed as the authentic Bharat Mata.
Constitutional authorities should remain neutral, not push ideological views.
7. Jawaharlal Nehru’s Interpretation
Nehru’s view: Bharat Mata is the people of India.
Included mountains, rivers, forests, but mainly the people.
Quoted: “You are parts of this Bharat Mata... you are Bharat Mata.”
8. Conclusion
Forcing a single ideological version of Bharat Mata in official functions is inappropriate.
Leaders must respect the diversity of interpretations.
Office bearers must separate political ideology from constitutional responsibility.
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