PM Modi Cartoon: What Do Dogs Have Against Elephants?

PM Modi Cartoon: What Do Dogs Have Against Elephants? PM मोदी का कार्टून: कार्टून में प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी को एक सपेरे के रूप में, कुत्तों को हा

A cartoon recently published in Norway's largest newspaper has struck a raw nerve in the hearts of every Indian. In this cartoon, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is depicted as a snake charmer. On social media, this image is being condemned as a symbol of a racist and colonial mindset—one that reflects a derogatory and parochial outlook. This cartoon perpetuates that antiquated image of India—namely, the "land of snakes and snake charmers"—an image that has long been a staple of the colonial mentality.

The Racist Cartoon Depicting PM Modi as a Snake Charmer:

American expert Carl Wells described this as "colonial-era racism," stating that the Western media is unable to come to terms with India's rising global stature.

Norway's biggest paper just ran a cartoon of PM Modi as a snake charmer, calling him 'a sneaky and slightly annoying man.'

This isn't journalism. it's colonial-era racism dressed up as commentary. They can't stomach India's rise, so they reach for the same tired stereotypes… https://t.co/DidPfmzAGX

— Carl Wheless (@carlwheless) May 19, 2026

कुत्तों को हाथियों से क्या दिक्कत है?

Therefore, I find this anecdote to be particularly apt:

No matter which street an elephant walks down, dogs have but one job:

To bark.

Yet, the elephant never offers a reply.

Some people asked the dogs, "Why are you barking? What is your problem with the elephant?"

The dogs replied, "We have no problem with the elephant; our problem lies with those who stand before the elephant with folded hands."

— Pujya Swami Rajeshwaranand Ji Maharaj

During the colonial era, Western nations frequently portrayed India as a land of snakes and snake charmers. This portrayal was an attempt to disregard India's rich culture and scientific heritage, with the sole aim of depicting it merely as an "exotic" and backward nation. Today, as India carves out a distinct identity for itself on the global stage, it is perhaps inevitable that some will feel the burn.