WHP apologise for picturing a Hindu god smoking and drinking in a promo picture

They had Shiva in fancy dress

| UPDATED

Elrow has caused controversy after they pictured a Hindu god smoking and drinking to announce a Bollywood themed night.

In the announcement of the night at the Albert Hall in Manchester, it’s been accused of cultural appropriation, and has since apologised on the event for any offence caused and changed the image.

The promo picture displays various different aspects of Indian culture and Hindu religion, and this is where people’s issues lie. The picture aims to promote their Bollywood night so it must represent the Indian culture but people are suggesting that it could be done in a more appropriate way. Some people are going further and suggesting that the image is insulting towards Indian culture.

We spoke to Hiten and asked for a further comment, this is what he said:

“The Elrow Bollywood picture is disrespectful and insulting to many, including the Hindu community. Shiva is one the principal deities of Hinduism and Elrow has depicted Shiva in an unacceptable manner (with a party mask and cigarette). Also, to use something that many people consider sacred for an event like this is inappropriate. In addition to this, Bollywood and Hinduism are two different things.

“The Warehouse Project, The Albert Hall, Elrow and all other stakeholders should publicly apologise for this and should be more culturally aware.

“This depiction has damaged the brand of The Warehouse Project, The Albert Hall and Elrow. Members of the Hindu and non-Hindu community are angry about this.”

Hiten is also formerly the president of the KCL Hindu Society.

But not everybody shares the same view as Hiten. We spoke to Chester who has an opposing view on the situation, this is what he had to say:

“I just think that basically they are all a pack of jumped up twats. They are just the type of people that when something like this happens feel the need to use eloquent words and talk like they are filling the word count on there bullshit life dissertation. They just look like, and I’m sorry but I can’t find a more fitting word, like a pure and simple grade A cunt.

“I can guarantee they are either A, Southern or B, virgins because nobody up the north really gives a flying fuck and would go to Elrow because they put on a fucking good do! In fact I’m glad they did it, maybe it will stop these pretentious half-arsed boring music sympathisers from sponging the life out of every good thing going.”

The picture, which was originally the cover photo for the Facebook event, has now been cropped and only displays the title of the event. Warehouse project have also released an official statement apologising for any offence caused.

New, more culturally sensitive artwork is now being used to promote the event:

Elrow has responded with an apology as well. He told The Tab Manchester, “We would like to apologise to anyone offended by the Elrow Bollywood artwork released yesterday.

“We have taken onboard the feedback and changed the Bollywood artwork across the board.”