Recently, a photograph of Mamata Shankar went viral on social media, showing her on stage at an RSS event. To verify whether the renowned actress, dancer, and Padma Shri awardee Mamata Shankar had indeed attended the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) South Bengal Prant Sangh Shiksha Varg programme, Aajkaal.in contacted her directly.
Mamata Shankar confirmed that she had been invited as a special guest and had attended the event. She also shared her views on the newly elected BJP government.
Speaking about her participation in the RSS event, Mamata Shankar said: “Yes, I attended. I admire the work and ideals of the RSS very much. I believe it is very necessary for India. That is why I went there. I appreciate their discipline and principles. I have attended their events before, and I attended this one as well.”
Recently, there has been a change of government in the state. The BJP came to power after defeating the Trinamool Congress by a large margin in both votes and seats. Mamata Shankar was also present at the swearing-in ceremony of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.
When asked how optimistic she was about the new government, she said: “I am very optimistic. I like the way the work is being carried out. I hope they continue working in the same manner. I would like them to keep serving the nation selflessly and with the country’s welfare in mind.”
However, she also added: “Some actions could perhaps be implemented with a little more time. For example, if the shops that are being removed were given some additional time before eviction, it would be better. But the initiative itself is very good.”
In the past, Mamata Shankar has often spoken in favor of preserving Indian culture and traditions. She has criticized certain ways of wearing sarees that she considers a distortion of tradition. She has also commented on clothing styles in which undergarments are visible. Additionally, she has previously stated that she feels it is embarrassing to ask one’s father, husband, or another male family member to purchase sanitary pads.
When asked whether her support stemmed from the BJP’s and RSS’s efforts to preserve Indian culture and heritage, she replied:
“Absolutely. I would say this very strongly. They have preserved our culture. I want India’s culture and traditions to return to their rightful place. I hope that India will attain the highest position on the world stage. That is my dream. Such values should be taught in every household and to every individual. The world is looking toward our country. Other nations are trying to adopt our culture, spirituality, and many of our positive values, while we are trying to adopt their negative aspects. I would like us to reject those negative influences.”
