Telangana: Installation of Ganesh idol in Secunderabad sparks controversy over ‘Muslim-Ganpati’ theme – Telangana News

An annual Ganpati festival in Telangana’s Secunderabad has become the centre of controversy over allegations that the idol of the deity has a ‘Muslim’ look. The organisers clarified that the theme of the Ganpati pandal was inspired by the Bollywood film ‘Bajirao Mastani’, leading to the misunderstanding.

The controversy has erupted over the Ganesh idol’s attire, created by the Lion Youth Association, which was inspired by the attire worn by actor Ranveer Singh in Bajirao Mastani. The resemblance, however, did not go down well with some groups who found the depiction inappropriate.

Outrage quickly spread on social media, with some accusing the organizers of offending their religious beliefs. Others called the theme an expression of secularism.

In response, one of the organizers clarified the intention behind the theme, explaining that the end result did not match their vision.

“We did not deliberately choose a Bajirao Mastani “The theme was different. Unfortunately, the way things went gave rise to misunderstandings. Our aim was never to hurt anyone,” explained a member of the organising committee.

Organizers also expressed disappointment at the negative reaction on social media, attributing the confusion to miscommunication with the artist responsible for the design.

Despite the outcry, the Young Leo youth association decided to continue the celebrations peacefully and urged the public not to misinterpret its intentions. “We just want to continue our Ganpati Bappa celebration. The execution was not what we expected, but we do not want to escalate the situation,” the committee member said.