‘Racist’ cartoon depicting PM Modi as snake charmer adds to Norway controversy

A cartoon portraying PM Modi as ‘snake charmer’ during Norway visit sparks racism row amid press freedom debate

A cartoon published by Norway’s leading newspaper Aftenposten ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Oslo has triggered controversy online, with critics accusing it of reviving racist stereotypes about India.

The illustration, accompanying an opinion article on India’s engagement with the Nordic region, depicted Modi as a “snake charmer” with a fuel-pipe snake — imagery many social media users said echoed outdated Western portrayals of India as a land of snake charmers and superstition.

The controversy gained traction alongside a separate debate over press freedom during Modi’s Norway visit. The issue erupted after a Norwegian journalist questioned the Indian leader and later raised concerns over media freedom and human rights, prompting a strong response from India’s Ministry of External Affairs.

The episode has since fueled wider discussions over media narratives, cultural stereotypes and perceptions of India abroad.