After opposition from Hindu community, Vijay Sales pulls down Diwali advertisement featuring Santa Claus

Mumbai, October 19^th — Vijay Sales (India) Pvt. Ltd. had released a Diwali advertisement portraying Santa Claus shopping for Diwali gifts. The Sakal Hindu Samaj objected to this as a form of “Christianization of Diwali.” Following public protests, the company withdrew the advertisement and issued an apology to the Hindu community.

On October 16^th, members of the Sakal Hindu Samaj noticed this objectionable advertisement circulating on news channels and social media. The next day, on October 17th, Hindu activists staged a protest outside the Vijay Sales showroom at Prabhadevi. Large numbers of supporters participated, warning the company to immediately remove the ad from media platforms or face stronger protests. Company representatives present at the site assured that the advertisement would be taken down.

Police officers from the Dadar Police Station were also present at the scene. Activists later lodged an official complaint at Dadar Police Station, accusing Vijay Sales (India) Pvt. Ltd. of hurting Hindu religious sentiments and demanded legal action against the company’s owners and the advertisement’s creators. Following the protest and complaint, the controversial ad was removed from all online platforms.

What was offensive about the ad ?

The advertisement showed Santa Claus shopping for Diwali, inviting everyone to do the same. Protesters argued that Christian missionaries in several parts of India, including Maharashtra, are attempting to convert Hindus by blending Christian imagery with Hindu traditions. Portraying Santa Claus instead of Hindus celebrating their own festival was seen as a continuation of that effort.

All future advertisements will respect Hindu faith and culture – Vijay Sales (India) Pvt. Ltd

“We have always deeply respected Hindu religion, culture, and traditions. It was never our intention to hurt anyone’s religious sentiments. Going forward, all our advertisements will fully honour Hindu culture, traditions, and values,” the company said in its official statement to the Hindu community.

Sakal Hindu Samaj issues a warning

“For several years, companies have deliberately released advertisements that offend Hindu faith and mock their deities during festive seasons. Hindus have exercised restraint till now, but hereafter, the Sakal Hindu Samaj will not tolerate any advertisements that insult or distort Hindu beliefs,” the organization declared.