Prime Minister Narendra Modi bowed with folded hands during the swearing-in ceremony of Suvendu Adhikari as the first BJP chief minister of West Bengal [1].
The event marks a historic political shift in the state, as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) establishes its first government in West Bengal. The gesture by the prime minister underscores the party's effort to solidify its relationship with the local electorate following a decisive mandate.
The ceremony took place on Saturday, May 9, 2026 [1], in Kolkata [1]. During the proceedings, Modi performed a 'Sashtang Pranam', a traditional bow with folded hands, to express gratitude toward party workers and the general public [2].
Modi used the moment to acknowledge the support that delivered the BJP's victory in the region. "I bow to West Bengal Jana Shakti," Modi said [3].
Throughout the event, the prime minister emphasized the importance of the public's role in the party's success. "People's blessings are the truest," Modi said [4].
The atmosphere in Kolkata remained celebratory as Suvendu Adhikari took the oath of office. The BJP's transition to power in the state follows a period of intense political competition, and the prime minister's public display of humility was aimed at the 'Jana Shakti,' or people's power, of the state [2].
“"I bow to West Bengal Jana Shakti"”
The formation of the first BJP government in West Bengal represents a significant breach of a long-standing political stronghold. By performing a Sashtang Pranam, Prime Minister Modi is utilizing cultural symbolism to signal a new era of governance based on gratitude and public alignment, attempting to legitimize the party's authority in a historically resistant political landscape.
