EC sends notice to Sena (UBT) over invoking Goddess Bhawani in party theme song

The Election Commission of India (ECI) recently issued a notice to the Shiv Sena (UBT) regarding their use of the term “Bhavani” in their newly released theme song, aimed at promoting their new electoral symbol of the ‘flaming torch.’ The theme song features imagery of the late Shri Bal saheb Thackeray, founder of the party, holding a flaming torch, alongside scenes of Shiv Sena supporters and prominent figures like Aaditya and Uddhav Thackeray participating in rallies. Additionally, the background of the song includes chants of “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji.”

In response to the notice, Uddhav Thackeray, the chief of Shiv Sena (UBT), expressed adamant refusal to remove the term “Jai Bhavani” from the song, likening the ECI’s request to a fatwa. Thackeray asserted that the phrase holds deep significance for the party, drawing attention to its longstanding use as a political slogan. He further invoked the stature of Goddess Bhawani in the Shiv Sena’s political narrative, emphasizing the historical reverence for the deity, particularly within the context of Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s devotion to her.

Thackeray also challenged the ECI’s stance by drawing comparisons to the usage of similar religious and cultural references by other prominent political figures, including Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. He questioned the consistency of the ECI’s actions, implying a selective approach towards addressing religious sentiments in politics.

Overall, the Shiv Sena (UBT) remains firm in its stance, asserting the cultural and political significance of the term “Jai Bhavani” within their narrative, despite the notice from the ECI