Kolkata: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday offered prayers at a Durga Puja pandal in the city and expressed hope that West Bengal elects a government in 2026 that is capable of building a ‘Sonar Bangla’ (Golden Bengal). He said the BJP envisions a state that is once again safe, prosperous, and culturally vibrant.
Prayers and wishes at Durga Puja
Shah visited a Durga Puja pandal based on the theme ‘Operation Sindoor’ where he extended greetings to people on the festive occasion. Speaking about the nine-day Navratri festival, he remarked that it has gained worldwide recognition for its devotion to Shakti (divine feminine energy).
“Every person dedicates themselves to Shakti puja during these nine days. I prayed to Maa Durga to bless Bengal with a government that can deliver true prosperity,” he said.
Earlier in the day, Shah also offered prayers at the historic Kalighat Kali Temple.
Tribute to Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
During his visit, the Union Home Minister paid homage to Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar on his birth anniversary. He highlighted Vidyasagar’s contributions to education, particularly women’s education, and said his legacy continues to inspire reform and empowerment in modern India.
Condolences over festival tragedy
Shah also expressed grief over the loss of lives caused by heavy rainfall at the beginning of the Durga Puja festivities. “More than 10 people lost their lives due to rain and electrocution incidents. All BJP workers stand with the families of the deceased,” he said.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had earlier announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh to the next of kin of those who died in the electrocution incident. She also promised government employment support for affected families.
Bihar visit to strengthen BJP strategy
After completing his engagements in West Bengal, Amit Shah is set to travel to Bihar for a two-day organisational tour. His visit includes a closed-door meeting with BJP workers in Bettiah, part of a series of review sessions aimed at preparing the party for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
The BJP has divided Bihar into five organisational zones to ensure region-specific outreach. Shah had already chaired zonal meetings in Dehri-on-Sone and Begusarai on September 18.
On Saturday, September 27, he will lead another zonal meeting in Sarayranjan, followed by addressing a large gathering of BJP workers in Forbesganj. He will also participate in a high-level strategy meeting at the BJP state office in Patna with senior state leaders, secretaries, and campaign coordinators.
Conclusion
Amit Shah’s visit to Kolkata combined cultural and political undertones — offering prayers during Durga Puja while simultaneously projecting the BJP’s vision for West Bengal’s 2026 elections. His subsequent Bihar tour signals the party’s intensified preparations for its next electoral battle, with a focus on energising cadres and fine-tuning regional strategies.