Overview

• RR Sporting Club replaced an image of Jesus inside the pandal with Lord Krishna following a committee meeting on Friday.
• Organisers said they removed crosses and other Christian images from the interiors while keeping European-style statues outside.
• VHP accused the design of hurting Hindu sentiments and pushing conversions and called for a probe into funding and intent.
• BJP leader Babulal Marandi urged respect for religious traditions as JMM voices asked that the festival not be politicised.
• The club said the tableau cost over Rs 70 lakh, drew on a 2022 Kolkata Vatican-themed design, and employed artisans from Kolkata to recreate the architecture.