Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has faced political backlash after stating that nearly 90 per cent of saffron used for tilak comes from Islamic countries. The comments drew sharp responses from the BJP, religious scholars and social media users, who accused him of confusing saffron with kumkum and lacking knowledge of Hindu practices.
The remarks came while Kharge addressed questions about the RSS. He suggested that advocates of Hindutva should stop using tilak if saffron is largely imported from Muslim-majority nations. The statement spread rapidly online and prompted fact-checks.
BJP leaders criticised the minister for showing ignorance of traditions. They clarified that kumkum applied during rituals is made from turmeric mixed with slaked lime, not saffron. Saffron serves mainly as a spice and is used only occasionally in ceremonies.
Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje said officials in constitutional posts should know basic customs before speaking publicly. She accused Kharge of misleading people by equating the two substances.
Several BJP figures called for an apology to Hindus. Social media platforms saw numerous posts explaining the difference, including videos on kumkum preparation from turmeric. Users also shared memes and questions about the minister’s knowledge.
A Congress leader noted that India does import saffron from Iran but acknowledged the comparison with kumkum was inaccurate. Fact-checks confirmed the two products are distinct, with kumkum derived from turmeric and saffron cultivated in Jammu and Kashmir or imported.
The BJP accused the state government of repeatedly offending Hindu sentiments. Congress defended the remarks as part of a wider political discussion. Hashtags on the topic trended as supporters from both sides debated online.
