Secunderabad: A Ganesh idol set up in Telangana's Secunderabad has stirred up controversy over what many termed its 'Muslim-like' appearance, India Today reported.
Organisers of the annual Ganpati festival, the Young Leo's Youth Association, said that the theme of the idol was inspired by the Bollywood film 'Bajirao Mastani'.
The dress of the Ganesh idol, which is claimed to be resembling the actor Ranveer Singh’s attire in the movie, caused the row.
It is reported that the attire has raised heckles among some groups who called it ‘inappropriate’.
Many took to social media spreading outrage while accusing the organisers of hurting their religious sentiments.
However, some section termed the theme an expression of secularism
But the final outcome did not align with their vision, one of the organisers of the event clarified.
One member of the organising committee said that Bajirao Mastani theme was not deliberately chosen but things led to misunderstanding, adding that ‘Our goal was never to hurt anyone’s feelings.’
Expressing disappointment at the backlash on social media, organisers reportedly said that miscommunication with the artist was responsible for the design.
The Young Leo's Youth Association said it would continue with celebration, adding that ‘we don’t wish to escalate the situation’.