Rewa MP hit out at Congress MLA over Ardhanarishwar comparison

A statement by Congress MLA Abhay Mishra in Rewa drew sharp reactions from religious and social circles. The MP strongly objected to the MLA’s comparison of the Rewa SP to Lord Shiva’s Ardhanarishwar form from the stage of the Nyay Satyagraha. The MP described it as an insult to Sanatan Dharma, Lord Shiva and the transgender (kinnar) community all at once.

Photo: Rewa MP Janardan Mishra

Significance of Ardhanarishwar and the MP’s objection

The MP said Ardhanarishwar was the complete and divine form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Bhavani, a unique union of masculine firmness and feminine compassion. In sharp words, he said that comparing this sacred form to a ‘hijra’ was not only an insult to Lord Shiva but also deeply hurt the feelings of the transgender community.

The MP further said the statement struck at Sanatan culture, religious faith and people’s reverence for the gods and goddesses. Calling the Congress MLA “devoid of basic knowledge of Sanatan Dharma”, he said such people looked down upon deities in society.

Respect for the transgender community and saints

The MP said the transgender community then held a respected place, an akhara had been established for them and they had been given standing in the saint community. But the MLA’s statement had insulted the community too, which was angry and preparing to protest. The MP warned that the transgender community would not stay silent on the issue and would remain active in opposing it.

Counter to remarks about the Deputy CM

Referring to another controversial statement by Abhay Mishra, the MP said that a man who had spent his whole life in contracting, gravel, sand and tar was calling others “worms that eat mud”. He also hinted that the Congress MLA was a drinker of tar.

VHP also issued warning

Adding fuel to the row, former divisional organisation secretary Manish Mishra said the MLA consumed a certain kind of “intelligence-boosting tonic”, under whose influence he insulted Lord Shiva’s Ardhanarishwar form. He warned clearly that insulting Lord Shiva would not be tolerated and that, if necessary, a militant agitation would also be launched.

Political and social impact of the row

Abhay Mishra’s statement not only intensified rhetoric in political circles but also activated religious and social organisations. The issue could heat up further in Rewa in the days ahead, as the BJP and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad were taking a tough stand, treating it as a matter of faith and respect, while the Congress party’s official position on the MLA’s remarks had yet to emerge.