‘Jhalmuri break’: Narendra Modi makes surprise street food halt during West Bengal poll campaign

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a surprise stop during his election campaign in West Bengal, pausing at a roadside stall in Jhargram to enjoy a serving of ‘Jhalmuri’.

A staple Bengali street snack made from puffed rice, chillies and spices, ‘Jhalmuri’ is widely popular across the state. Sharing a video of the moment on social media, Modi wrote, “Jhalmuri Break in Jhargram!”

In the clip, the Prime Minister is seen asking the vendor for a packet, saying, “Bhai, hame apna Jhalmuri khilao (Brother, please treat me with your Jhalmuri).” He then greets the shopkeeper and asks the price. When the vendor initially refuses to take money, Modi insists on paying, saying, “Arey nahi nahi bhai, aise nahi (No no brother, don’t do this).”

Modi also shared photos of the interaction, where he is seen eating the snack and offering it to supporters gathered around him. “Amidst four public meetings across West Bengal on a hectic Sunday, I savored some delicious spicy puffed rice in Jhargram,” he posted.

Addressing a rally in Jhargram ahead of the April 23 voting, Modi sharply criticised the ruling Trinamool Congress, alleging it aimed to form a government “of infiltrators and for infiltrators.”

“The TMC wants to form a government that protects only the religion, language and customs of infiltrators, not the people of Bengal,” he said, according to PTI.

Calling the election crucial for “saving the identity of Bengal” and preserving its heritage, Modi accused the state government of neglecting development, particularly in tribal regions. “Fifteen years is no small time. What has the TMC government given you? No education, no income, no medicine and no irrigation,” he said, also alleging illegal occupation of tribal lands in parts of the state.