VHP slams Akhilesh for 'wasting money on diyas' remark

Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav faces a major backlash from the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) over his remarks on diyas during Diwali. While addressing a public gathering, Yadav suggested that the Uttar Pradesh government should reconsider "wasting money" on traditional Diwali lamps and candles, proposing instead that they should "learn from Christmas celebrations" globally.

He said, "Across the world, all cities get illuminated during Christmas, and that goes on for months. We should learn from them. Why do we have to spend money on lamps and candles and put so much thought into it? We will make sure that there are more beautiful lights." 

Vinod Bansal, the National Spokesperson for the VHP, accused the former UP Chief Minister of glorifying foreign traditions over indigenous Indian culture. He stated that Yadav’s suggestion to "Don't waste money on diyas and candles, learn from Christmas" showed that the rows of diyas have "burned his heart." He added a personal jab, calling Yadav "Tipu" and suggesting that his party should be called the "Asamajwadi Party" (anti-social party) for being jealous of Hindu celebrations.