Udupi: A portion of a Harikatha performance held at Rajangana in Udupi has sparked controversy after an artiste allegedly made derogatory remarks against Adi Shankaracharya, prompting the Paryaya Shiroor Mutt to condemn the statements and seek a public apology from the performer.BS Raghavendra Bhat, a scholar, said a video clip from the cultural programme held on July 11 had gone viral. He alleged that the artiste had used objectionable and derogatory words while referring to Adi Shankaracharya, hurting the sentiments of Hindus. “We were even prepared to initiate legal action. However, since the incident took place at Rajangana of Udupi Mutt, we decided to first speak to the officials of the Paryaya Shiroor Mutt,” Bhat said.He said he interacted with mutt diwan M Udaya Kumar Saralathaya, who informed him that the mutt strongly condemned the incident and had also issued a clarification. According to the mutt, a team from Belagavi had approached it seeking permission to present a programme. The artistes had stated that they would present the episode of ‘Bhakta Prahlada’. However, during the Harikatha, they allegedly made derogatory remarks against Adi Shankaracharya without the knowledge or approval of the mutt, he said.A woman artiste involved had subsequently released a video apologising for their remarks. He urged people not to insult philosophers and spiritual leaders and said such incidents should not be repeated. He also warned that legal action could be considered if similar incidents recur.Meanwhile, the artiste said they had no intention of insulting Adi Shankaracharya or hurting anyone’s sentiments. She also clarified that no one had instructed them to make the remarks and tendered an apology.The Mutt asked the artist to issue a public apology through a video, which they have done, Udaya Kumar said. He added that the mutt was also upset over the episode and condemned the objectionable remarks.
