CONTROVERSY: MURAL SPREAD ANGOR AND AGONY AMONG HINDUS IN NEW YORK

DEC 25, 2014 I NEW YORK

A recently opened exhibition in Brooklyn Museum titled “Eyes of Time” has spread anger and agony among Hindus in New York and US which is scheduled till July 12.

Hindus in New York are upset over inappropriate portrayal of Goddess kali, a 60-food mixed media mural exhibited in the museum which has three legs, three breasts and six arms. Her face is a clock with no actual time, according to Art Daily reports

In a video about the exhibition and mural, the Indian-American artist Chitra Ganesh explained the work “explores themes of femininity and multiplicity”.

According to Rajan Zed, president of Universal Society of Hinduism, the trivialization of Goddess Kali is disturbing the devotees world over and he has urged the Brooklyn museum to withdraw it. Zed also asked Museum’s Director Arnold L. Lehman to tender a formal public apology.

Pointing that Hinduism is the oldest and third larged religion of the world, Rajan Zed says if museums need any assistance about Hinduism, he or other Hindu scholars would glad to help.

Goddess Kali, who personifies Shakti or divine energy and considered the goddess of time and change, is widely worshipped in Hinduism.

Reports says, ‘The museum seems to have three Kali paintings in its permanent collection, which includes "Siddha Lakhsmi with Kali" painting from 1600s.

This exhibition is organized by Assistant Curator Saisha M. Grayson.