A political storm erupted in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday after Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav compared Diwali celebrations to Christmas festivities around the world, questioning the Yogi Adityanath government’s spending on diyas and candles for the annual Deepotsav in Ayodhya. His remarks have triggered sharp criticism from the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and other Hindu groups, accusing him of disrespecting Indian traditions.

Addressing reporters in Lucknow, the former chief minister suggested that India could take inspiration from how Western cities celebrate Christmas, emphasizing better illumination and longer festive displays.

“I will give one suggestion in the name of Lord Ram — across the world, cities are illuminated for months during Christmas. We should learn from them,” Yadav said, as quoted by ANI.

He went on to question the UP government’s expenditure on the Deepotsav, saying the administration was wasting public funds on symbolism rather than substance.

“Why do we have to spend so much money on lamps and candles? What can we expect from this government? It should be removed. We will ensure more beautiful and meaningful lighting,” Yadav remarked.

The comments, made just a day before Diwali, drew immediate backlash from Hindu groups, who accused the SP chief of “glorifying foreign culture” while undermining India’s own traditions.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal lashed out at Yadav, calling him a “messiah of jihadis and conversion gangs.”

“Today, on Diwali, he is giving lectures about Christmas. Christmas will come after two months — he doesn’t even know which festival is going on,” Bansal wrote. “When will Akhilesh Yadav free himself from his anti-Sanatani mindset?”

The BJP also joined the chorus, accusing Yadav of “insulting Hindu sentiments” and “playing politics over faith.” Party leaders alleged that his comments reflected the SP’s “habit of belittling Hindu festivals” for political gain.