Hindu Voice UK, May 2008

 

Hindu groups around the world have expressed concern about upcoming Mike Myers comedy film, “Love Guru”, which is due for release on 20 June 2008.

Campaigners are contacting film distributor associations, exhibitor groups and theatre owners in various parts of the world, including the United States, to urge them not to distribute or screen the movie until Paramount Pictures, the producer of the film, makes necessary changes to it.

Based on the trailer and promotions, the groups involved believe that the film promotes a negative image of Hinduism and Hindu spiritual teachers as charlatans, and have been campaigning to be allowed a pre-screening before the film’s release, so that if necessary objectionable parts of the film can be discussed and edited.

Rajan Zed, an American Hindu religious representative who has been interviewed by Hindu Voice UK in the past, said that in the trailer sacred Sanskrit terms are used very frivolously and with sexual connotations. While this may seem minor to some, Zed feels that it leads to inaccurate stereotyping of Hindu spirituality in the West.

"People are not very well-versed in Hinduism, so this might be their only exposure. They will have an image in their minds of stereotypes. They will think most of us are like that."

Paramount, which has screened sensitive films for select audiences in the past, said early screenings would be held for the Hindu community.

“‘Love Guru,’ which is not yet complete, is a satire created in the same spirit as ‘Austin Powers,’” Paramount said in a statement, noting that the film features spiritual teacher Deepak Chopra and Hindu actor Manu Narayan. “It is our full intention to screen the film for Rajan Zed and other Hindu leaders once it is ready.”

Religious groups in America have supported the campaign. Various Catholic, Presbyterian, Jewish, Native American, Methodist, Buddhist and other spiritual/religious leaders, have already issued statements in support of this cause. Religion in America is quite united in in trying to stop or roll back liberal/secular ridicule or exploitation of religion.

The strongest statement was issued by Rabbi Elizabeth W. Beyer of Nevada, in a statement, said, " 'The Love Guru' lampoons Hinduism, mocks Ashram life and Hindu philosophy. While 'Guru Pitka' states that he endorses no particular religion, the movie clearly portrays him as a guru - religious leader of Hindus. It is unfortunate that the comedy jabs at a culture of which many Americans are not familiar. It leaves viewers with a distorted, sexually flagrant parody...In the case of this movie, we owe it to our Hindu friends to speak out against this misleading sham. Gross distortions of another culture do not lead to improved relations, tolerance and understanding. They lead towards disrespect. Please join me in a boycott of this movie."