Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday initiated a special discussion in the Lok Sabha on the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ – marking its 150th anniversary.

During his remarks, PM Modi referred to the song’s composer, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee , as ‘Bankim Da.’ This reference, however, drew an immediate objection from Trinamool Congress Member of Parliament (MP) Saugata Roy, who said the PM should use ‘Bankim Babu’ instead.

PM Modi was quick to respond. He said, “I will say Bankim Babu. Thank you, I respect your sentiments,” before joking, “Can I call you dada, or is that also an issue?”

Da Vs Babu in Lok Sabha

‘Da’ is the short form of ‘dada’, meaning elder brother, used informally for someone older, familiar, or respected in a friendly way. Calling someone ‘Bankim Da’ feels friendl

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