‘Insult to Hindu faith’: BJP slams Akhilesh Yadav over Diwali Remarks

October 19, 2025

New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday strongly criticised the Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav for his recent comments questioning the expenditure on lighting diyas and candles during Diwali. The BJP described his remarks as “shocking” and “insensitive” to Hindu traditions.

Yadav’s Controversial Statement

The controversy began after Yadav commented on Saturday:

“Throughout the world, cities become beautifully illuminated during Christmas, and this festive lighting can last for months. We should take inspiration from this. Why do we need to spend money on diyas and candles, and overthink the process? We should reconsider what to expect from the government; perhaps it should be changed. We will ensure that there are more stunning lights in the future.”

BJP Leaders React Strongly

BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya responded on X, condemning Yadav’s statement:

“Akhilesh Yadav’s statement is not only shocking but also shows insensitivity towards our festivals. Diwali is a symbol of our cultural and spiritual values — it is not just a festival of lights, but it conveys the message of the victory of light over darkness.”
“Diyas and candles are part of our tradition, embodying the spirit and devotion of every household. Calling them a ‘waste of money’ is not only inappropriate but also an insult to the Hindu faith,” he added.
“Instead of comparing festivals, Akhilesh Yadav should respect India’s diverse traditions — this is true secularism.”

BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal also criticized Yadav, stating:

“At least ‘Maulana’ Akhilesh Yadav should not tell us how to celebrate Diwali. The enthusiasm and joy this year seem to hurt the mindset of people like him, who oppose Sanatan traditions.”
“Lighting diyas and firecrackers is part of India’s culture. Maulana Akhilesh Yadav doesn’t understand this, as he only cares about vote banks and has nothing to do with Indian civilisation. This is why the public rejects him every time.”

Ayodhya’s Deepotsav Sets New Records

The backlash coincides with Ayodhya’s grand celebration of the ninth edition of Deepotsav, which began on October 17. The festivities will reach their peak on Monday with the lighting of 26,11,101 diyas across 56 ghats along the Saryu River, aiming to set a new record in spiritual celebration.

Deepotsav 2025: A Fusion of Tradition and Technology

This year’s Deepotsav showcases an unprecedented scale of participation:

• 26 lakh diyas
• 2,100 Vedic scholars
• 1,100 drones
• 33,000 volunteers

The event reflects Ayodhya’s emergence as a global symbol of faith, heritage, and cultural pride.