Uttar Pradesh’s Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyaya has reignited debate over school curriculum by expressing objection towards another popular English nursery rhyme, “Rain, Rain Go Away,” contending that it conflicts with Indian cultural values. The minister’s remarks come shortly after he courted controversy for criticising the Johnny Johnny Yes Papa poem, which he claimed promotes dishonesty among kids.

“Rain should be welcomed,” argues Minister

Upadhyaya elaborated on his stance, saying that the rhyme propagates a wrong message among the people of the country, where rainfall is considered vital and is often celebrated. While addressing the local media, he asserted, “What is this? A child wants to play and asks the rain to go away. This goes against our traditions. In our Indian culture, rain is welcomed because it benefits everyone.”

He further argued that such content should not be incorporated in school textbooks, as it may subtly shape kids’ attitudes in ways that contradict societal values.

Upadhyaya kicked up row earlier over ‘Johnny Johnny’

Earlier, Upadhyaya had criticised the Johnny Johnny Yes Papa poem, where he objected to the line, “Eating sugar? No Papa,” opining that it encourages children to lie to their parents. He said this while addressing a gathering of educators at Kanpur’s Merchant Chamber Hall on May 6, where Shiksha Mitras, para-teachers and contractual staff were in attendance. He called for value-based education, and urged teachers to move beyond textbook instruction.

Minister maintains English rhymes are devoid of ethical depth

The Minister, while drawing a distinction between Western and Indian traditions, maintained that many English nursery rhymes are devoid of the ethical depth required to guide young minds. He lauded older Hindi poems, saying that they carried stronger cultural meaning and life lessons.