Former Mamata Banerjee grabbed social media attention on Thursday after appearing at the Calcutta High Court wearing a black lawyer’s gown instead of her trademark white saree look.
The Trinamool Congress leader attended court proceedings related to a post-poll violence case following the party’s recent electoral setback. However, it was her unexpected courtroom attire that quickly became the main talking point online, sparking a flood of reactions and memes across X.
Photos and videos of Banerjee in legal robes rapidly went viral, with users divided over the dramatic appearance. Some social media users mocked the look, calling it “a fancy dress competition,” while others compared the moment to scenes from Bollywood comedy films. One viral post joked, “Mamata in court: ‘Objection your honour!’ Judge: ‘On what grounds?’ Didi: ‘On TMC grounds only!’”
Several users also questioned whether simply wearing a lawyer’s gown allows someone to represent themselves in court, while critics accused the veteran politician of turning the courtroom into a political spectacle. Political commentary soon followed, with opponents claiming Bengal needed “development, not drama.”
At the same time, supporters defended Banerjee’s unconventional style, saying her unpredictability and dramatic public appearances are part of what keeps her politically relevant and widely discussed.
The courtroom appearance added another viral chapter to Banerjee’s public image, which has often generated headlines for her fiery speeches, street protests, singing performances, and symbolic gestures.