📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Mr. Debapriya Hore
Religion
Poster urging 'Buy Biryani from Hindu Shops' sparks row in Siliguri ahead of Durga Puja
✍️ Deccan Herald
🗓 12 Oct 2026, 08:03 AM
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A poster campaign urging shoppers to buy biryani from Hindu-owned stores has ignited a controversy in Siliguri, West Bengal, just days before the Durga Puja festivities.
A poster bearing the slogan "Buy biryani from Hindu shops" was displayed across Siliguri in the run‑up to the city’s Durga Puja celebrations. The campaign, aimed at promoting Hindu‑run eateries, quickly attracted public attention.
Local residents and community groups raised objections, arguing that the message could deepen religious sensitivities during the festive period. Social media users also shared images of the posters, amplifying the debate.
The controversy has prompted discussions among civic authorities and cultural organisations about the appropriateness of such messaging ahead of a major religious festival. No official statement has been released yet, but the issue remains a focal point of local discourse.
Local residents and community groups raised objections, arguing that the message could deepen religious sensitivities during the festive period. Social media users also shared images of the posters, amplifying the debate.
The controversy has prompted discussions among civic authorities and cultural organisations about the appropriateness of such messaging ahead of a major religious festival. No official statement has been released yet, but the issue remains a focal point of local discourse.