Could Radico Khaitan's Whisky Name Insult Hindu Beliefs?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The recent name choice for Radico Khaitan's premium whisky, 'Trikal', has stirred intense backlash, with critics claiming it disrespects Hindu traditions. This situation has sparked protests from religious leaders and the community, raising questions about the implications of such branding in today's society.
Key Takeaways
- Radico Khaitan's whisky naming has caused nationwide protests.
- Critics view the name 'Trikal' as disrespectful to Hinduism.
- Acharya Krishnam has been a prominent voice against the branding.
- Religious leaders are calling for the product's withdrawal.
- Brands must be sensitive to cultural and religious sentiments.
Kullu (Himachal Pradesh), May 26 (NationPress) A significant uproar has erupted against liquor producer Radico Khaitan after it designated its premium single malt whisky as 'Trikal', a term intimately connected to Lord Shiva and the Sanatan Dharma tradition. This decision sparked protests from various influential saints, religious organizations, and political figures, who labeled it a blatant affront to Hindu faith.
One of the most vocal critics was Acharya Pramod Krishnam, who provided a sharp rebuke, describing it as part of a wider trend of ridiculing Hinduism in public discourse. In an interview with IANS, he remarked: 'It has become a trend to undermine Hindu beliefs. Be it a leader disrespecting Ganeshji, Maa Bhagwati, Bajrang Bali, Sita Maiyaa, Gau Mata, or Bharat Mata, this liquor company has joined the ranks of those mocking us.'
He clarified that 'Trikal' and 'Mahakal' are not mere words but revered symbols of Lord Shiva.
'Would a liquor corporation dare to name a product after Jesus Christ or Prophet Muhammad? No, they wouldn't. Yet, it is the tragedy of Hindus, stemming from our disunity and frailty, that such incidents keep happening. Radico Khaitan’s actions clearly reflect a deficit of respect for our beliefs,' he stated.
Krishnam emphasized the necessity for corporations to recognize the spiritual and emotional ties that millions of Hindus share with these sacred references.
'Why was this name selected? This merits serious scrutiny. I urge the company’s management to honor the Sanatan Dharma. Avoid schemes that provoke or deride Hindu beliefs. Outrage is both inevitable and justified,' he cautioned.
In his concluding remarks, he raised a more profound concern regarding the ongoing targeting of Hindu sentiments, questioning: 'Why are Hindu beliefs persistently under siege? This raises significant questions about motives. Today it’s 'Trikal'—what might come next? Such provocations must cease to uphold the dignity of our culture and traditions.'
The whisky bottle in controversy, priced between Rs 3,500 and Rs 4,500, features the name 'Trikal' on a teal label, adorned with a stylized graphic resembling Lord Shiva's third eye, further intensifying the debate.
Religious leaders nationwide—from Ayodhya to Ujjain—have denounced the branding, urging the company to retract the product.
Point of View
The backlash against Radico Khaitan's whisky naming is a reflection of the broader societal tensions regarding respect for religious sentiments. While marketing strategies may aim for shock value, they must also consider the potential repercussions on community harmony. The concerns raised by various stakeholders underscore the necessity for brands to approach cultural symbols with caution and respect.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Trikal' signify?
The term 'Trikal' is deeply associated with Lord Shiva and represents sacred spiritual concepts in Hinduism.
Why has there been backlash against Radico Khaitan?
The backlash stems from the belief that naming a whisky 'Trikal' is disrespectful to Hindu traditions and beliefs.
What actions have religious leaders taken?
Religious leaders across India have condemned the branding and called for the withdrawal of the product.
What are Acharya Krishnam's main arguments?
Acharya Krishnam argues that this naming is part of a broader trend mocking Hinduism and questions the intentions behind such marketing strategies.
What is the price range of the whisky?
The whisky is priced between Rs 3,500 and Rs 4,500.
