West Bengal Government to Remove Controversial Statue at Salt Lake Stadium
Salt Lake Stadium Statue Row: Designed by Mamata Banerjee, 'Ugly' Structure To Be Brought Down By Bengal Govt
Image: Times Now News
The West Bengal government has announced plans to remove a controversial statue designed by former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. Sports Minister Nisith Pramanik criticized the structure as 'ugly' and lacking meaning, suggesting it symbolizes the decline of the previous government. Fans are supportive of replacing it with statues of iconic footballers.
- 01The statue, designed by Mamata Banerjee, was installed in 2017 during renovations for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
- 02Sports Minister Nisith Pramanik described the statue as 'grotesque' and criticized its aesthetic appeal.
- 03Pramanik linked the statue's installation to the decline of the previous government, citing the Messi controversy as a turning point.
- 04Fans expressed support for replacing the statue with representations of iconic footballers to honor the stadium's legacy.
- 05The announcement came after an emotionally charged Kolkata derby match between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan.
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The Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, which recently hosted a thrilling Indian Super League derby, is set to see the removal of a controversial statue designed by former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Sports Minister Nisith Pramanik announced the decision, criticizing the statue as 'ugly' and lacking aesthetic value. Installed in 2017 ahead of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the structure features large footballing legs intertwined with the Biswa Bangla logo and the word 'Joyi' on a football. Since its unveiling, the statue has faced significant backlash from football fans who question its symbolism and design. Pramanik's remarks included a politically charged statement linking the statue to the decline of the previous government, suggesting that its installation marked the beginning of their troubles. Following the derby, many supporters welcomed the decision, advocating for the installation of statues of iconic footballers instead, to better reflect the rich history of football at this venue. This development highlights the ongoing dialogue about public art and its representation in sports culture.
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The removal of the statue may lead to a more favorable representation of football culture in Kolkata, aligning public art with local sentiments.
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