Hindus seek 'public apology' from Natalie Portman over 'denigrating' video

Washington, Oct 2 : Natalie Portman has enraged America's leading Hindus with her portrayal of an Indian princess in ex-beau Devendra Banhart's new Carmensita video - and now they're seeking public apology from her.

The actress' role of Princess Carmensita Saplingita in the promo is 'denigrating' to Hinduism, according to religious scholars, who claim that the video "mocks Hindu concepts and symbols".

Rajan Zed, an acclaimed Hindu and Indo-American statesman, admits that he is deeply hurt by the video, which he claims simply serves to feed incorrect stereotypes of his religion.

"The images used in the video are revered in Hinduism and are not to be thrown around loosely for dramatic effects," Contactmusic quoted him, as saying.

"We invite Hollywood to immerse itself in Hinduism, but we ask that actors and actresses, directors and producers take our religion seriously and respectfully.

"Hindus would gladly provide genuine Hollywood seekers the resources they needed for their study and research. Casual flirting sometimes results in pillaging serious spiritual doctrines and revered symbols and hurting the devotees," he added.

Besides Zed, officials at the Hindu Alliance of India, Shri Ramayan Pracharini Sabha, India Heritage Panel, have also demanded the actress to distance herself from the Banhart video.

"Forgiveness is one of the main virtues of Hindu ethics. If Natalie Portman offers a sincere public apology, Hindus would not only absolve her but might also pray for her success in future ventures," Zed added.

ANI