Controversy Erupts as Gandhi Calls Lord Ram a 'Mythological Figure' During US Visit

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has made controversial remarks about Lord Ram during a discussion at Brown University in the United States. Gandhi referred to Lord Ram as a “mythological figure” while addressing a question about secularism and the rise of Hindu nationalism in India, speaking at the Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs.

His comments didn’t sit well with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused him and the Congress party of having an “anti-Hindu” and “anti-Ram” mindset. BJP leaders shared clips of the interview on social media and criticized Gandhi for allegedly mocking Hindu beliefs.

During the session, Rahul Gandhi said, “All our mythological figures—Lord Ram was one of them—were forgiving and compassionate. I don’t believe the BJP’s interpretation of Hinduism represents the true Hindu idea. True Hinduism is pluralistic, embracing, affectionate, and tolerant.”

He went on to label the BJP a “fringe group” that, despite holding significant political power and wealth today, does not reflect the thinking of most Indians. “Hatred and anger come from fear,” he said. “If you are not afraid, you don’t hate anyone.”

Reacting sharply, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Insulting Lord Ram has become Congress’s identity. From denying Ram’s existence in court to opposing the Ram Temple, and now calling him mythological—Rahul Gandhi and his party continue to hurt Hindu sentiments.”

Other BJP leaders echoed the sentiment. Pradeep Bhandari accused the Congress of routinely mocking Hindu beliefs and showing selective respect during elections. BJP’s CR Kesavan also referenced a 2007 affidavit filed by the UPA government, which stated that there was no historical evidence for Lord Ram’s existence.

The controversy once again places religion and faith at the center of a growing political and ideological rift, as India approaches another high-stakes election season.