📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prime Minister's Office
Travel
Suvendu Adhikari Launches New West Bengal Tourism Logo Amid Criticism
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 05 Sep 2026, 03:33 PM
👁 2
West Bengal tourism minister Suvendu Adhikari unveiled a new state tourism logo, drawing immediate criticism over its design and relevance.
West Bengal tourism minister Suvendu Adhikari introduced a fresh logo intended to re‑brand the state's tourism image. The unveiling took place at a public event attended by officials and media representatives. The new emblem features stylised motifs meant to reflect the region's cultural and natural heritage.
Soon after the launch, designers, cultural commentators and some political observers voiced concerns. Critics argue that the logo’s visual elements do not adequately capture West Bengal’s distinct identity and bear resemblance to existing symbols used elsewhere. They also question whether the design process involved sufficient stakeholder consultation.
The tourism department defended the logo, stating that it was created after a competitive selection process and will be rolled out across promotional material, signage and digital platforms. Officials said the rebranding aims to attract domestic and international visitors by presenting a modern yet authentic image of the state.
The debate highlights the sensitivity surrounding state symbols in India, where visual identity often intertwines with cultural pride and political narratives. The department has not announced any revisions, but the criticism may influence future branding decisions.
Soon after the launch, designers, cultural commentators and some political observers voiced concerns. Critics argue that the logo’s visual elements do not adequately capture West Bengal’s distinct identity and bear resemblance to existing symbols used elsewhere. They also question whether the design process involved sufficient stakeholder consultation.
The tourism department defended the logo, stating that it was created after a competitive selection process and will be rolled out across promotional material, signage and digital platforms. Officials said the rebranding aims to attract domestic and international visitors by presenting a modern yet authentic image of the state.
The debate highlights the sensitivity surrounding state symbols in India, where visual identity often intertwines with cultural pride and political narratives. The department has not announced any revisions, but the criticism may influence future branding decisions.