Gayatri Mantra recital at fashion show invites flak

Kochi, Dec 11 (UNI) Hindu Aikya Vedi General Secretary Kummanam Rajasekharan today sought an apology from the Navy for the recital of 'Gayatri Mantra' during a fashion show organised by them.

Talking to UNI, Mr Rajasekharan said the recital of the holy mantra was inappropriate for a 'westernised programme like fashion show.' Questioning the purpose of the show, he said ''the Navy which was supposed to uphold the integrity of the nation had with this act eroded the culture of the nation.'' ''The mantra was sentimental to believers and this has hurt their sentiments,'' he said adding that the Navy should admit the mistake and apologise.

When contacted, a Navy spokesman said the conduct of the show was given to an event management company and they organised it.

The fashion show was organised as part of the Navy Week celebrations yesterday.

UNI MA ROY PK RN2009