Darbhanga: Union Minister and Bihar BJP in-charge Dharmendra Pradhan has issued a public apology to the people of Mithilanchal following the recent ‘Pag’ controversy, acknowledging the cultural importance of the traditional headgear and calling the incident a misunderstanding.
Speaking in Darbhanga, Pradhan said, “I apologise on behalf of the party for the insensitivity shown. The Mithila Pag deserves the utmost respect. It symbolises honour and heritage, and I deeply regret any hurt caused.”
The controversy began in Alinagar, during an election campaign for BJP candidate and folk singer Maithili Thakur, when Uttar Pradesh MLA and star campaigner Ketki Singh was seen throwing the traditional Pag (turban) and saying, “Mithila’s pride is not the Pag, it’s Maithili Thakur.”
Her remarks drew sharp criticism, with people at the rally shouting, “Pag is the pride of Mithila.” The Vidyapati Seva Sansthan, a cultural organisation, demanded disciplinary action and a public apology, stating that the statement had “insulted the identity of Mithilanchal.”
Following an uproar on social media, Ketki Singh expressed regret, clarifying that she had no intention of insulting Mithila’s culture. “The Pag is respected across the world. I only meant that Maithili Thakur, as a daughter of Mithila, also represents its honour. I can never imagine disrespecting the Pag,” she said.
Meanwhile, another video surfaced showing Maithili Thakur eating makhana (fox nuts) from a Pag during a celebration, which some misinterpreted as disrespect. The singer clarified that she was being honoured with makhana by local women in Ghanshyampur village, and the act was taken out of context.
Addressing reporters in Delhi, Pradhan also spoke on the political front, announcing that several leaders, including VIP national vice-president Badri Kumar Purve and RJD leader Dr Kumar Gaurav, joined the BJP. He said their induction would strengthen the NDA’s position in Bihar ahead of the assembly elections.
Pradhan concluded by paying tribute to Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur, calling him the “true people’s leader of Bihar.” In an apparent reference to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he added, “Those trying to copy Karpoori Thakur’s legacy will never be accepted by the people.”
