Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee has often used verse to express dissent, anger, resilience and ideological conviction. But “Girgiti” stands out for its biting undertone. Through the metaphor of a chameleon — an animal associated with changing colours depending on circumstance — the poem appears to accuse certain individuals of opportunism and political betrayal.
While the full text of the poem has sparked debate on social media and within Bengal’s political ecosystem, the broader message seems unmistakable: loyalty matters, especially in moments of political adversity. The timing of the poem has added to its significance. The Trinamool Congress has recently faced questions over internal unity after its electoral defeat and subsequent organisational tensions.
This is not the first time Mamata Banerjee has turned to literature during moments of political crisis. Earlier this year, she released several politically loaded poems, including collections focused on democracy, fear, justice and alleged electoral manipulation. One such collection, “SIR: 26 in ’26”, reportedly carried poems dealing with themes such as panic, hatred and institutional distrust.
More recently, after the election defeat, Banerjee shared another poem titled “Brave”, urging party workers and supporters not to lose courage. The poem spoke about dignity, strength and endurance in difficult times, with party leaders projecting it as a morale booster for the TMC rank and file.
Over the years, Mamata Banerjee’s poems have occupied a curious space in Bengal politics — simultaneously mocked by critics, defended by supporters and closely analysed for political messaging. Whether it was her earlier verses on democracy and protest or now “Girgiti”, the poems often function as indirect political speeches, carrying coded warnings and emotional appeals.
Political observers believe “Girgiti” reflects the mood inside the Trinamool Congress after the election results. The poem appears less like a literary exercise and more like a public warning to those perceived as “fair-weather allies”. In Bengal’s political culture, where symbolism and rhetoric hold enormous weight, Banerjee’s choice of poetry instead of a direct political statement is also significant.
The poem has already triggered intense reactions online, with supporters praising Mamata Banerjee’s “fighting spirit” while opponents accuse her of deflecting attention from the party’s crisis. Regardless of interpretation, “Girgiti” has succeeded in doing what many of Banerjee’s poems often do — reigniting political conversation beyond formal speeches and press conferences.
At a moment when the future direction of the Trinamool Congress is under scrutiny, Mamata Banerjee has once again chosen verse to send a message: in politics, colours may change, but she is watching who changes them.
