Begusarai: In Bihar’s Begusarai, a Durga Puja pandal has become the talk of the town after organisers replaced the traditional demon Mahishasura with a statue of US president Donald Trump. The striking display shows Goddess Durga, mounted on her lion, piercing Trump with her spear, as he writhes in pain with a snake dangling from one hand.
The unusual theme, chosen by the public Durga Temple committee at Vishnupur Chandni Chowk, has attracted crowds of curious onlookers. Committee president Rajkishore Prasad explained that Trump symbolises oppression through his economic and political actions.
“Donald Trump has committed atrocities by imposing taxes on Indian goods and increasing visa fees,” Prasad said. “This year, instead of Mahishasura, we are showing Mother Durga slaying him.”
Committee members said the idea was also inspired by what they saw as Trump’s attempts to undermine India’s military. “During Operation Sindoor, our army gave a fitting reply to Pakistan,” said Mukesh Kumar, another organiser. “But Trump claimed the ceasefire was because of him, belittling our soldiers’ bravery. The pandal is a reminder that good always triumphs over those who try to weaken us.”
Locals say such depictions are not new. In previous years, idols of China’s Xi Jinping and Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan were cast in the role of Mahishasura. Organisers insist the theme reflects public sentiment rather than party politics.
For many visitors, however, the pandal is less about international politics and more about spectacle. With bright lights, music, and an idol of Durga slaying a figure resembling Trump, it has become one of the most talked-about attractions of this year’s Sharadiya Navratri in Begusarai.
