Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has been involved in a controversy recently. This was regarding his recent devotional song ‘Mahakal Chalo’. The song has been criticized from the day of its release for allegedly disrespecting Sanatani Culture.
Akshay Kumar’s ‘Mahakal Chalo’ song controversy
The controversy started after a priest objected to certain visuals of the song. Especially when Akshay Kumar was embracing Shivling and the manner in which sacred ash or bhasma was offered. According to the priest, these actions were not in line with the traditional practices, to be specific the bhasma offering. This was reserved for Ujjain Mahakal Temple.
How Akshay Kumar Responded
After the controversy started Akshay Kumar shared his view in a press conference. He emphasized that his devotion for Lord Shiva is rooted in his upbringing, he was taught to view god as parent. Then akshay questioned why hugging a symbol of god should be wrong? drawing parallels with showing affection to one’s parents.
Akshay Kumar said, ‘Aap bataiye ki humein bachpan see sikhaya gaya ki parvati aur shiv hamare mata pita hai. Aur agar aap unko pyar se hug karte hai to usme koi burai hai? Agar meri shakti wahan se ati hai, aur meri bhakti ko koi galat samjhe to usme mera koi kasur nehi hai’.
The Cultural Context
This controversy highlights the sensitivity surrounding religious representations in media. While Akshay Kumar’s intentions was to express devotion, the priest association felt that certain elements were mispresented.
