HT Correspondent
MARGHERITA, Dec 10: Margherita witnessed rising tensions on Tuesday after incense sticks manufactured by Patanjali Company Pvt Ltd were discovered featuring images of Gautam Buddha.
Gautam Buddha, the revered founder of Buddhism and a global symbol of love, humanity, and compassion, has increasingly been depicted on commercial products, sparking outrage among the Buddhist community residing in the Margherita co-district area.
Sashidhar Shyam, general secretary of the All Assam Buddhist Association, Tinsukia District Committee, strongly condemned the practice, stating that using Gautam Buddha’s image for commercial purposes is profoundly disrespectful to the faith and sentiments of Buddhists.
“We have also observed Gautam Buddha’s images being used on dustbins, flower pots, wine shops, beer bars, and even selfie points,” he added.
“This blatant misuse is a cause of great disappointment for the Buddhist community in Assam, as well as across the world,” remarked Sashidhar Shyam.
The All Assam Buddhist Association has demanded that the proprietor of Patanjali Company Pvt Ltd, along with the Assam and Union governments, immediately ban products featuring Gautam Buddha’s image.
“We warn that failure to act will compel the peace-loving Buddhist community to stage massive street protests in the days to come,” said Sashidhar Shyam.