Ganesha Bappa Moriah; Sreejith Panicker portrays Lord Ganesha as symbol of nationalism

Sreejith Panicker asserts that Lord Ganesha transcends being merely a religious or worshiped icon. According to his Facebook post, Sreejith Panicker highlights that Lord Ganesha also symbolizes nationalism, having kindled the flames of struggle among the people of Bombay during the freedom movement.

In light of Speaker A N Shamseer's speech, the entire state is now observing Faith Protection Day. Sreejith Panicker offers his response during this time. He also points out that on Ganesha Chaturthi in 1946, Mumbai's residents portrayed Ganesha adorned in the uniform and cap of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose's Indian National Army.

The Facebook post reads:

Lord Ganesha is not solely a religious or revered idol. He stands as a symbol of nationalism, having ignited the fervour of struggle among the populace of Bombay during our fight for independence. Galvanized by the patriotic fervour instilled by the non-cooperation movement among Indians in the British Navy and the trial of INA soldiers at the Red Fort, the citizens of Bombay presented Lord Ganesha in the uniform and cap of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose's INA on Ganesh Chaturthi in 1946. What diverse forms Ganesha takes! Ganesha Bappa Moriah!

In response to Speaker Shamseer's remarks, which have stirred controversy, NSS has declared a Faith Protection Day. In Thiruvananthapuram, a Namajapaghoshayatra is being held, starting from Palayam Ganesha Temple and concluding at Pazhavangadi Ganesha Temple.

Shamseer had expressed that Ganesha is a myth and not a scientific phenomenon. Sukumaran Nair, the General Secretary of NSS had earlier said that such a statement is hurtful to believers and unsuitable for anyone who upholds democratic values.