Bali, Indonesia Sentinel — The Hindu community in Bali is in uproar after a viral video surfaced showing a nightclub using an image of Lord Shiva as a visual backdrop for a DJ performance. The incident, widely shared on social media, has sparked backlash from various groups, particularly Balinese Hindus.
The viral video, circulating on social media, shows a crowded nightclub with flashing red lights and loud electronic dance music played by a DJ. A large image and symbols of Lord Shiva are prominently displayed behind the DJ booth. The venue is claimed to be one of the largest nightclubs in Bali.
Lord Shiva is considered a sacred deity worshipped by Hindus in Bali. Depicting him as part of a nightclub performance which unrelated to religious ceremonies or worship, has been deemed highly inappropriate and disrespectful.
Hindu Leaders Response
The Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia (PHDI) Bali, the island’s leading Hindu religious council, has responded strongly to the controversy.
Putu Wirata Dwikora, Secretary of PHDI Bali, stated that although the individuals responsible for the alleged religious defamation have yet to be identified, the council is issuing an open legal warning to the nightclub for its perceived disrespect toward Hindu beliefs.
“We are still investigating where this took place and who is responsible for displaying Hindu religious symbols in an inappropriate setting. However, we will not wait too long. We are issuing an open legal notice to hold those involved accountable and demand clarification,” Wirata said, as reported by Detik.
He emphasized that the Hindu community feels deeply insulted by the use of a revered deity’s image in a setting considered inappropriate.
“We want to hear their reasoning for displaying it in such a place. While we are not rushing to judge, the Hindu community feels that their faith has been disrespected. However, we remain open to clarification,” Wirata added.
PHDI Bali is demanding accountability from those behind the nightclub, which has been described in the video as the “largest club” in Bali. The organization is pursuing both legal action and cultural responsibility measures to address the incident.
PHDI strongly condemns the use of Lord Shiva’s image as nightclub entertainment, asserting that the deity is a sacred religious symbol meant to be worshipped in temples and other holy sites, not commercial venues.
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Mixed Reactions from the Public
The viral video has sparked debate among social media users. While many netizens condemned the display as unethical and inappropriate, others defended it as an artistic expression commonly seen in trance music performances.
However, many pointed out that the nightclub was not conducting a religious ritual. Additionally, the majority of attendees were reportedly non-Hindus, making the use of Lord Shiva’s imagery even more questionable in context.
As the controversy continues, Hindu leaders in Bali are urging authorities to take action and ensure that religious symbols are treated with the respect they deserve.
(Raidi/Agung)
