Assam: Buddhist community in Margherita protests use of Gautam Buddha's image on commercial products

Margherita witnessed rising tensions on Tuesday after incense sticks manufactured by Patanjali Company Pvt. Ltd. were found featuring images of Gautam Buddha. The revered figure, the founder of Buddhism and a global symbol of love, humanity, and compassion, has been increasingly depicted in commercial products, sparking outrage among the Buddhist community.

Sashidhar Shyam, General Secretary of the All Assam Buddhist Association’s Tinsukia district committee, voiced strong objections to the practice. He stated that using Gautam Buddha’s image for commercial purposes is deeply disrespectful to the faith and sentiments of Buddhists. "We have also noticed Gautam Buddha’s images being used on dustbins, flower pots, wine shops, beer bars, and even selfie points. This blatant misuse is a cause of great disappointment for the Buddhist community in Assam," Shyam remarked.

The association has demanded that Patanjali Company Pvt. Ltd., along with the Assam and Union Governments, immediately ban such products featuring Gautam Buddha’s image. They warned that failure to act would compel the peace-loving Buddhist community to stage massive street protests in the days to come.


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