Washington: The use of Mahatma Gandhi’s image on beer cans by a US company has raised hackles with a petition being filed in a Hyderabad court alleging it had insulted the father of the nation following which the liquor company has apologized.
But even as it tendered an apology, the Connecticut-based New England Brewing Company claimed that its intention was to pay homage and celebrate the apostle of peace.
The beer brand is called“Gandhi-Bot”, which the company says is an intensely hopped double India pale with a blend of three varieties of American Hops.
The petition submitted that it amounts to offences under Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, and under relevant sections of the IPC — related to use of inflammatory words and signs. The petition is slated to come up for hearing on Monday.
“Aromatic and fully vegetarian, Gandhi-bolt is an ideal aid for self-purification and the seeking of truth and love,” the company says on its website. “We hope that not only our product is consumed responsibly with fine food and friends but that they are also inspired to learn more about Mahatma Gandhi and his non-violent methods of civil disobedience. So many Indian people here in America love our tribute to the great man,” then company adds.
- See more at: Brand Gandhi on beer cans: Grin and bear it | Free Press Journal
