KUALA LUMPUR – Radio station Era FM and its presenters have garnered backlash over a video featuring its staff allegedly mocking the Hindu festival of Thaipusam.
MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan has issued a strongly worded statement condemning the actions of the channel and those involved in making fun of a sacred ritual.
The video, which recently went viral, shows individuals imitating the sacred kavadi dance while chanting “Vel Vel,” a significant religious phrase in Hinduism. Saravanan denounced the act as “brainless” and “disgraceful,” calling it a blatant insult to the Hindu faith.
“This is not just stupidity – it is a blatant insult to the faith and traditions of Hindus in Malaysia. Such a disgusting display of ignorance and disrespect has no place in our society,” he said in a statement.
Saravanan, who is also Tapah MP, criticised Era FM for allowing such content to be created and shared, questioning the professionalism of its staff. He stressed that a media organisation should be more mindful of religious and cultural sensitivities.
“This is not humour but an act of mockery that deeply offends the Hindu community,” he added, warning that such actions threaten national unity.
He also urged the government to take immediate action against the radio station and called on Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil to intervene.
“At the very least, Era FM must issue a public apology, and the individuals responsible must be held accountable,” Saravanan said, warning that failure to act would set a dangerous precedent for other media outlets. – March 4, 2024