CPI(M) Slams Anurag Thakur’s ‘Hanuman’ Space Claim as Anti-Science

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) sharply criticized BJP leader Anurag Thakur for claiming that Hindu deity Hanuman was the “first space traveller,” labeling the remark an “assault on rational thought.” CPI(M) General Secretary MA Baby, in a post on X, accused Thakur of “mocking science” and undermining the scientific temper enshrined in India’s Constitution.

Thakur, a five-time MP from Hamirpur, made the controversial statement during a National Space Day event at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Una, Himachal Pradesh. Addressing students, he asked, “Who was the first to travel into space?” When some responded with “Neil Armstrong,” Thakur countered, “I think it was Hanuman ji,” referencing the Hindu epic Ramayana, where Hanuman is depicted leaping across vast distances. The claim drew immediate backlash, with CPI(M)’s Baby arguing that Hanuman’s mythical journey was atmospheric, not extraterrestrial, and that such statements belittle India’s scientific community. 

“This is a betrayal of our students and scientists. India needs investment in research, not anti-science theatrics,” Baby posted, adding the hashtag #DefendScience. The controversy echoes similar criticisms of BJP leaders for blending mythology with science, a trend opponents argue distorts rational discourse. Posts on X reflect polarized sentiments, with some mocking Thakur’s remark as “bizarre” and others defending it as a nod to cultural heritage.

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Historically, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin holds the record as the first human in space, orbiting Earth on April 12, 1961. Thakur’s statement, made in the context of India’s space achievements, has reignited debates over balancing cultural pride with scientific accuracy, especially as India pushes for advancements through ISRO’s ambitious programs like Gaganyaan. The CPI(M) and other critics, including the DMK, have called the remark “deeply troubling,” urging a focus on evidence-based education. 

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