Jhalmuri Takes Centre Stage At Suvendu Adhikari’s Swearing-In Ceremony In Kolkata

The humble Bengali snack jhalmuri has unexpectedly become one of the biggest talking points of West Bengal politics this year. What started as a simple roadside snack during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election campaign has now turned into a symbol of celebration for BJP workers after the party's historic victory in the state Assembly elections.

As BJP prepares to form the government in West Bengal for the first time, thousands of supporters gathered at the Brigade Parade Ground on Saturday with packets of jhalmuri in hand to celebrate the swearing-in ceremony of Suvendu Adhikari.

Brigade Ground Turns Saffron Ahead Of Oath Ceremony

The Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata wore a festive look ahead of the oath-taking ceremony. BJP supporters from different districts started arriving early in the morning to witness what many called a "historic moment" in Bengal politics.

Several temporary jhalmuri stalls were set up around the venue, and long queues of party workers and supporters could be seen waiting to buy the spicy puffed rice snack. Many attendees were seen entering the venue carrying jhalmuri packets while chanting slogans and celebrating BJP's victory.

The excitement around the snack reflects how deeply it became connected with the BJP campaign this election season.

How Modi's Jhalmuri Stop Became Viral

The story began during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's campaign visit to Jhargram. During the tour, Modi suddenly stopped at a roadside shop and ordered jhalmuri. He interacted warmly with the shopkeeper and even insisted on paying for the snack despite the vendor reportedly refusing to take money from him.

Pictures and videos of the moment quickly went viral on social media. The simple act created massive public attention, especially in Bengal where jhalmuri is not just food but part of everyday culture.

Soon after, BJP leaders and workers began using the snack as part of campaign celebrations and public outreach programmes.

BJP Celebrated Victory With Jhalmuri

After the Assembly election results were announced on May 4, BJP workers distributed jhalmuri in several parts of the state to celebrate the party's victory.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was also seen enjoying jhalmuri while celebrating BJP's performance in Bengal. The images once again pushed the snack into the political spotlight.

By the time of the oath-taking ceremony, jhalmuri had almost become an unofficial "victory snack" for BJP supporters in the state.

BJP Creates History In Bengal

The BJP is set to form the government in West Bengal for the first time after winning 207 seats in the Assembly elections. The victory marks a major political shift in a state that has long been dominated by regional parties.

Suvendu Adhikari will take oath as the ninth Chief Minister of West Bengal. His appointment is also politically significant because the state is getting a Chief Minister from a district background after nearly 55 years.

The oath-taking ceremony is being held on the occasion of Rabindra Jayanti, celebrated every year on the birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

Top BJP Leaders Attend Mega Event

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already arrived in Kolkata for the swearing-in ceremony. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is also expected to attend the mega event.

Several senior BJP leaders and Chief Ministers from other states have reached Kolkata as well. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and former Union Minister Smriti Irani were among the prominent faces seen in the city on Saturday morning.

The oath-taking ceremony is scheduled to begin at 11 am at the Brigade Parade Ground.