Content creator Atharv Sudame issues apology after Ganesh idol video criticism

New Delhi: Social media content creator Atharv Sudame issued a public apology after a video he shared around Ganeshotsav drew criticism online according to a report.

The reel, which has since been deleted, showed Sudame as a devotee preparing to buy an idol for the festival. The idol-maker in the storyline was depicted as belonging to a Muslim family, leading to speculation in the narrative over whether the devotee would go ahead with the purchase. 

To respond to this, Sudame’s character quoted a line attributed to his father: “We should be like sugar, which sweetens both kheer and sheer khurma. We should be like a brick, which helps build both temples and mosques.”

While the video was intended to convey a message of harmony, it received sharp reactions from some viewers, who described it as provocative and misleading. Following the backlash, Sudame deleted the reel from his social media platforms.

In an apology video posted on Monday, Sudame clarified, “Yesterday, I uploaded a video on my social media platforms, which I have now deleted. Many people were upset and did not like it. I want to make it clear that my intention was never to hurt anyone or their beliefs. So far, I have made many videos based on Hindu festivals, Marathi culture, and our language.”

He further defended his work as a creator who often highlights cultural traditions, adding: “I don’t think any other influencer has made as many videos as I have on our festivals and culture. I truly had no intention of offending anyone. But if people still feel hurt, I apologise.”