Is Lalu Yadav's Sword-Cutting Cake Gesture Igniting a Political Storm?
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Synopsis
Lalu Prasad Yadav's extravagant birthday celebration has stirred up controversy, triggering sharp criticisms from political rivals over his choice to cut a cake with a sword. As tensions rise in Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections, this incident raises questions about symbolism and political rivalry. Is this a playful gesture or a blatant display of arrogance?
Key Takeaways
- Lalu Prasad Yadav's birthday celebration sparked political controversy.
- The RJD chief cut a 78-pound cake with a sword, drawing criticism.
- Political opponents questioned the implications of this gesture.
- RJD supporters highlighted social justice initiatives on the same day.
- Political tensions in Bihar are escalating ahead of Assembly elections.
Patna, June 11 (NationPress) As the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) commemorated the 78th birthday of its leader Lalu Prasad Yadav on Wednesday, the celebration attracted intense criticism from political adversaries, particularly due to a viral image of the RJD chief slicing a 78-pound cake with a sword.
Union MSME Minister and founder of Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), Jitan Ram Manjhi, took a jab at Lalu Prasad Yadav in a post on X, sharing a photograph of the RJD Chief perched on a chair, with his feet on a table, wielding a sword to cut the cake.
Manjhi remarked: "The demeanor of those who create divisions in society with oiling sticks remains unchanged. Today, when he is out of power, 'Sahab' is cutting cake with a sword. If by chance the son regains power, the cake will be sliced with an AK-47. Isn't that right, Lalu Prasad Yadav? Nonetheless, happy birthday."
In the wake of Manjhi's comment, BJP National Spokesperson Ajay Alok also launched a fierce critique of the RJD Chief, questioning the implications of using a sword.
"Lalu Prasad Yadav, congratulations on reaching 78. However, your old ways remain unchanged. You wielded the sword against the people of Bihar -- the Dalits and backward classes -- and now even against a cake. You’ve instilled the same values in your party and children. Everyone in RJD seems to be brandishing swords and spears," Alok stated.
The image, captured during the festivities at the residence of Lalu Prasad Yadav’s wife and former Chief Minister Rabri Devi, has ignited extensive debate on social media, with critics deeming it a sign of arrogance, while RJD supporters defended it as a playful and symbolic gesture.
Meanwhile, RJD leaders and supporters marked the day as "Social Justice and Goodwill Day", engaging in welfare initiatives throughout Bihar, such as food distribution, book donations, and sapling planting, showcasing Lalu Prasad Yadav's dedication to social justice.
As the political climate intensifies in Bihar ahead of upcoming Assembly elections, gestures and symbolism—even those arising from birthday celebrations—are swiftly transforming into focal points of heated political discourse.
Point of View
The incident surrounding Lalu Prasad Yadav's birthday celebration highlights the potent mix of symbolism and controversy in Indian politics. This moment serves as a reminder of how gestures, even those meant to celebrate, can provoke fierce debates and critiques, reflecting deeper societal divides and rivalries.
NationPress
12/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Lalu Yadav cut a cake with a sword?
The act was part of his 78th birthday celebration, but it drew criticisms from political opponents who viewed it as a display of arrogance.
What was the political reaction to the birthday celebration?
Political opponents, including Jitan Ram Manjhi and Ajay Alok, criticized the act, questioning its symbolism and implications for Bihar's society.
What initiatives did RJD undertake on this day?
RJD leaders and supporters observed the day as 'Social Justice and Goodwill Day', engaging in welfare activities such as food distribution and sapling planting.
