S African Co offends Indians by depicting Gandhi on credit card

New Delhi, May 16 (UNI) A South Africa based company 'Virgin Mary', part of the Virgin Group established by Richard Branson of UK, had used Gandhiji's picture for a TV advertisement in South Africa promoting its credit card.

However, the company had to withdraw the advertisement following several protests lodged against it, Minister of External Affairs Pranab Mukherji told the Lok Sabha in a written reply today.

The advertisement was run through the month of March, he said.

''Our High Commissioner in London was asked to ascertain the details from the Virgin group in UK. They were informed that the advertisement had been withdrawn from media stations following complaints.

The Minister said that some individuals in South Africa, inclkuding Ms R Kallideen, Secretary Phoenix Settlement Trust and Mr Ram Maharaj, President Southg Africa Hinsdu Dharma Sabha had voiced their concern over the advertisements.

UNI