Sunburn festival's Lord Shiva image sparks controversy, prompts complaint
Goa, December 31: The inclusion of an image of Lord Shiva at the Sunburn festival in Goa has ignited a contentious debate, leading to a police complaint filed by Congress leader Vijay Bhike and a demand for action from AAP Goa chief Amit Palekar against the festival organizers. The popular electronic dance music (EDM) festival, Sunburn, commenced on December 28 at Vagator in North Goa, concluding on December 30.
The controversy unfolded as Congress leader Vijay Bhike lodged a police complaint on Friday against the Sunburn festival organizers following the public display of an image depicting Lord Shiva. The move was perceived as disrespectful and offensive, leading to concerns about the potential hurt to the sentiments of "Sanatan Dharma."
People drinking alcohol and dancing to loud music and my lord Shiva’s pics used in derogatory manner flashing on screen at EDM Festival hurts my Sanatan Dharma @DrPramodPSawant and you should immediately register FIR against @SunburnFestival for using my god for festival which… pic.twitter.com/KLOieJVtVy — Amit Palekar (@AmitPalekar10) December 29, 2023
AAP Goa chief Amit Palekar, taking to X (formerly Twitter), expressed his dismay, stating, "People drinking alcohol and dancing to loud music and my lord Shiva’s pics used in derogatory manner flashing on screen at EDM Festival hurts my Sanatan Dharma." Palekar urged Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to initiate immediate action, urging the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against the festival organisers.
Highlighting the juxtaposition of Lord Shiva's image at an event promoting alcohol consumption, Palekar emphasised the need for the state's law enforcement to recognize the gravity of this perceived offense.
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Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Palekar reiterated his call to the Goa Director General of Police, urging the registration of an offense against the Goa Sunburn festival organisers. He emphasized that the use of a divine image in conjunction with an event featuring alcohol was deemed inappropriate, asserting the necessity for corrective action.
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The controversy surrounding the Sunburn festival raises questions about cultural sensitivity and respect for religious sentiments, prompting both public outcry and official calls for accountability.
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