A selfie of Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was shared on social media, with claims that Gandhi was a 'janeudhari brahmin' who had a photo of Jesus Christ in his room but no Hindu Gods. However, the painting in the background is not of Jesus but 'Madonna Oriflamma'. Further research also shows that the painting is on display in New York and was originally named in Russian.
Rahul Gandhi's Alleged 'Jesus' Painting: Exploring the Facts and Context
Introduction:
In the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in India, a photo of former Congress President Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi went viral on social media. The photo allegedly showed a painting of Jesus Christ in the background, sparking claims that Rahul Gandhi was a 'janeudhari brahmin' who had a photo of Jesus but no Hindu Gods in his room. However, further investigation revealed that the painting in question was not of Jesus but of 'Madonna Oriflamma', a religious artwork by Russian artist Mikhail Nesterov.
The 'Madonna Oriflamma':
The 'Madonna Oriflamma' is an oil-on-canvas painting completed in 1904. It depicts the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus in a Byzantine-style iconography. The painting is characterized by its vibrant colors, intricate details, and an ethereal quality. It was originally commissioned by the Ipatiev Monastery in Kostroma, Russia, and is currently on display at the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow.
Rahul Gandhi's Religious Beliefs:
Rahul Gandhi has never publicly declared his religious beliefs. However, he has often expressed his respect for all faiths and has visited various religious sites, including temples, mosques, and churches. In a 2015 speech, he said, "I believe in a God who is not confined to temples or mosques or churches. I believe in a God who is everywhere."
Significance of the 'Madonna Oriflamma' in Indian Politics:
The presence of the 'Madonna Oriflamma' in Rahul Gandhi's home sparked significant political debate in India. Some commentators argued that it was a sign of his Christian leanings, while others dismissed it as a personal choice that had no bearing on his political agenda.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
Conclusion:
The 'Madonna Oriflamma' painting in the photo of Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi has become a subject of debate in Indian politics. However, it is important to approach this issue with factual information and avoid making assumptions based on religious symbolism. Rahul Gandhi's religious beliefs remain personal, and his political agenda should be evaluated based on his policies and actions rather than his choice of artwork.
Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray has spoken out about the recent cash-for-votes controversy surrounding BJP leader Vinod Tawde, suggesting that it may be the result of an 'internal gang war' within the saffron party. Thackeray has called for action to be taken based on the evidence, and has stated that Maharashtra will take action on its own if needed. The BJP, meanwhile, has denied the allegations and has accused the opposition parties of being involved in incidents of violence leading up to the crucial by-elections.
In a proposal for revamping the civil services, Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy suggests recruiting IAS and IPS officers from business schools rather than relying solely on UPSC exams. The move is aimed at bringing in a modern and business-oriented approach to governance. However, the proposal has sparked a debate among experts and civil servants alike, with some welcoming the idea while others voicing concerns about the impact on the diversity and inclusivity of the services.
COP29 delegates are facing a challenge as the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro did not provide strong signals for an effective climate finance agreement. Despite reiterating the need for scaling up climate finance, the G20 declaration did not address the immediate needs of COP29. Delegates are now looking to G20 leaders for support and clear mandates to resolve the deadlock in negotiations.
Political leaders, including PM Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, paid tribute to the former Prime Minister, remembering her as an embodiment of strength and resilience. Indira Gandhi's transformative leadership and patriotism are still sources of inspiration for many. Her birth anniversary is a reminder of her contributions to India's progress and development.
Former Maharashtra Minister and NCP (SP) leader Anil Deshmukh suffered injuries after his car was attacked by unidentified individuals while he was returning to Katol city in Nagpur district. The incident took place on Monday evening and police have launched an investigation to identify the culprits. Deshmukh's son is contesting elections on NCP leader Sharad Pawar's ticket from the Katol assembly seat.
A year after the Cannabis Control Authority took over regulating medical marijuana in Virginia, new numbers show an increase in patients and satisfaction with the program despite concerns about cost and limited availability. A survey of 800 patients revealed that the majority found significant relief from cannabis, but obstacles remain in integrating it into traditional healthcare. Suggestions for improvement, such as reducing cost barriers and insurance coverage, were proposed at a recent meeting.
In a case over rejected nominations in an Indian state, the Supreme Court has allowed candidates to appeal to the Election Tribunal. The court expressed concern over the high number of uncontested candidates and criticized the state's failure to inform the petitioners. This decision will provide an avenue for candidates to challenge their rejected nominations and ensure a fair and democratic election process.
Despite the pleas made by the counsel for the petitioner to reduce the punishment of two years disqualification from appearing in any University examination, the Punjab and Haryana High Court ruled in accordance with the Panjab University regulations which prescribe the punishment for use of unfair means. The judge also emphasized the importance of legal ethics in the profession and stated that the petitioner, being a student of LL.B. should be held to a higher standard. This decision highlights the need for students to maintain academic integrity and the consequences of cheating in the legal profession.
Amid ongoing tension in Manipur, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the investigation into multiple cases of violence, including the burning of houses and killing of civilians by alleged militants. The NIA will also look into the abduction and killing of 6 people from a displaced village and the attack on a CRPF post that resulted in the death of 10 alleged militants. The Ministry of Home Affairs has urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with security forces.
In a shocking move, former Delhi minister Kailash Gahlot joined the BJP after quitting Aam Aadmi Party, citing "grave challenges" within the party. He accused the party of prioritizing their own political agenda over fulfilling promises made to the people, including the transformation of Yamuna river. He also took a dig at AAP's leader Arvind Kejriwal, referring to controversies like the Sheeshmahal. Gahlot's move has raised doubts on whether the party still stands for the "aam aadmi" or common man.