Current location:

Indians upset over calendar featuring PM Narendra Modi on the cover

2025-04-27 05:58:54

Indians are unhappy with the fact that their Prime Minister has now entered wall calendars and table diaries.

Issued by the government-owned Khadi Village Industries Commission (KVIC), the 2017 calendars and diaries carry a cover photograph of Narendra Modi, instead of Mahatma Gandhi, who'd been on it for decades.

SEE ALSO: People are hating on India's national airline for wanting to reserve seats for women

Modi is seen weaving 'khadi' (a handspun cotton cloth) in a 'charkha' (a traditional spinning wheel) in the classic Gandhi pose, which was a symbol of the nationalist movement in pre-independent India.

Mashable Top Stories Stay connected with the hottest stories of the day and the latest entertainment news. Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter By clicking Sign Me Up, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Thanks for signing up!
Mashable ImageCredit: AP

Khadi's association with Gandhi is not only historic but also philosophical as it reflects his values and ideals of simplicity. Khadi workers have now revolted and are reportedly marching in protest of the move. Some have even called for the "reprinting" of calendars.

It has largely antagonized the masses too, some of whom have deemed the act "shameful".

However, there are a few counter-narratives, especially that of the KVIC chairman, who says that Modi will only end up popularizing khadi.

And his sentiments are echoed by some who think that KVIC sales will now see a spurt with Modi on the cover of its products.


Featured Video For You
Even Fox News is defending CNN against Trump
| FLINK |
| LINK |