Bharat Mata and the protocol of dignity: A Raj Bhavan perspective

The recent controversy over the display of the image of Bharat Mata at a World Environment Day function in Kerala is not merely a protocol dispute. It underscores a more significant concern: The politicization of national symbols and the reluctance of certain sections to accept the cultural underpinnings of Indian identity.

- P SREEKUMAR Journalist & additional private secretary to Governor of Kerala

Since assuming office, Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has followed a dignified ceremonial protocol for events held in the Raj Bhavan's main hall. The model is simple yet symbolically profound: Inaugurations commence with the lighting of the traditional lamp (nilavilakku) followed by a floral tribute to Bharat Mata, and the National Anthem—both at the beginning and end of the event.

This is not a partisan innovation but a reflection of the governor's reverence for Indian tradition and national unity. Many events have followed this ceremonial structure without incident—until the recent World Environment Day celebration, when a state government function hosted at the Raj Bhavan became a flash point.

The controversy unfolded after the agriculture department raised concerns about the nilavilakku and an image of Bharat Mata included in the minute-by-minute schedule shared by Raj Bhavan on the eve of the event. The department requested that the traditional lamp and the image be removed.

Later, they clarified that the lamp was not an issue, but the image of Bharat Mata was unacceptable—the reason cited was that the image was one used by the RSS. It was then suggested that if that particular image was problematic, an alternative depiction of Bharat Mata holding the national flag could be used instead. However, the response from the department was that no image of Bharat Mata should be used at all.