BJP Labels Akhilesh Yadav "Enemy of Sanatanis" Over Controversial Diwali Expenditure Remarks

Oct 20, 2025 01:53 pm CST

Union Minister Giriraj Singh has denounced Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav as an "enemy of sanatanis" following Yadav's controversial comments comparing Diwali celebrations with Christmas illuminations. The row erupted after Yadav questioned the Uttar Pradesh government's expenditure on diyas during Ayodhya's Deepotsav, suggesting they learn from global Christmas decorations instead. BJP leaders claim these remarks insult Hindu traditions and threaten the livelihoods of traditional lamp-makers from the Prajapati community.