Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 10 : The Maharashtra Congress, on Monday,criticised the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) chief Mohan Bhagwat after he was seen sharing a meal with singer-composer Adnan Sami, alleging that it was "anti-national".
The singer was among several celebrities who attended a two-day event in Mumbai over the weekend to mark the RSS centenary. The event, which also featured actors Rupali Ganguly and Shilpa Shetty and producer Ramesh Taurani, prompted sharp political reactions online.
Hours after the criticism, the musician hit back at the Opposition leaders over his interaction with the RSS chief.
In a post on X, Sami began his note with: "My dear respected fellow patriots from the Maharashtra Congress (@INCMaharashtra), it would not be fair to blame you for the tragic partition, which your forefathers were responsible for, as you cannot be held accountable for their deeds."
The singer also commented on how nations change and how people must accept reality and move on. Using the words "move on" and "legitimate nation," he added, "Regardless, today you acknowledge Pakistan as a legitimate nation despite this. It was once India and is now Pakistan... Therefore, once a legitimate conversion has taken place legally and as per procedure, you accept it and move on. Any doubt? Similarly, kindly move on..."
Responding to the Maharashtra Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut's comment, Sami said, "And my dear Sanjay (@rautsanjay61), it would be extremely wrong of me to blame your beloved father for the atrocious manner in which you play the harmonium. Your fingering is completely wrong and misplaced! I will be happy to teach you! I'm not a politician, I'm a musician who spreads love through his songs and, therefore, will love everyone who gives me love. I love you all too... Try love next time... That's all! Jai Hind & Jai Maharashtra!" he concluded.
https://x.com/AdnanSamiLive/status/2020809654708920368?s=20
The remarks came after Adnan posted pictures from the lunch with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday and praised him. In his post, he wrote, "Had an incredible afternoon with the legendary Sarsanghchalak (Chief) of RSS, Sri Mohan Bhagwat ji. It was delightful to hear him speak and there were so many myths & misconceptions that he so eloquently explained & cleared. An incredible gentleman & beautiful soul..."
https://x.com/INCMaharashtra/status/2020559860551836061?s=20
Minutes into the post, the Maharashtra Congress took to their X account, raising questions about Adnan's background. They wrote: "Adnan Sami's father, Arshad Sami Khan, was a pilot in the Pakistan Air Force who destroyed the Pathankot air base during the 1965 war. Today, Mohan Bhagwat is enjoying a meal with him. RSS = anti-national."