KOLKATA, August 13, 2026 : The West Bengal government has withdrawn the Banga Bibhushan, the state’s highest civilian honour, from Nagendra Roy, popularly known as Ananta Maharaj.
The honour was conferred on Ananta Maharaj on February 21, 2026. However, on August 13, 2026, the state’s Information and Cultural Affairs Department issued an official order directing that the award be “immediately withdrawn and cancelled.”
According to the government order, new information and circumstances came to light after the honour was conferred. After reviewing the matter, the competent authority concluded that continuing the award was not consistent with the dignity, stature and purpose of the Banga Bibhushan.
The order further states that Nagendra Roy alias Ananta Maharaj will no longer be entitled to claim himself as a recipient of the Banga Bibhushan. He will also not be eligible for any recognition, benefits or privileges associated with the award.
The state government has directed all concerned departments to remove his name from official government records and the list of Banga Bibhushan recipients.
The decision marks a rare instance of the West Bengal government withdrawing its highest civilian honour after it had already been conferred.
