Mumbai, June 13: Amazon India is embroiled in controversy over an advertisement featuring the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata. The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has accused the company of portraying Aryabhata in an inappropriate and disrespectful manner. Advocate Amita Sachdeva, who practices in the Supreme Court, has sent a legal notice to Amazon India regarding the issue.
The notice demands that the company publicly apologize within 48 hours and remove the advertisement from all platforms. It warns that failure to comply will lead to civil and criminal legal action against the company.
The controversy is linked to Amazon’s promotional campaign for its ‘Amazon Now’ service. The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti claims that the advertisement depicts a person dressed as Aryabhata in a humorous and mocking manner. The committee argues that Aryabhata is not just a historical figure but a symbol of India’s rich tradition in knowledge, science, and mathematics. Using his image for commercial promotion in this way is seen as a violation of Indian cultural heritage and national pride.
The notice highlights Aryabhata’s significant contributions to mathematics and astronomy, particularly his role in establishing the concept of zero globally. There is growing public outrage over the portrayal of such a revered scholar. The advertisement has faced backlash on social media, with many launching campaigns against Amazon.
The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti also pointed out that Amazon has faced similar accusations of insensitivity towards Hindu religious symbols and sentiments in the past. The committee insists that the company should respect Indian culture and its great personalities.
According to the notice, Amazon must remove the advertisement from YouTube, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), television, and all other digital platforms. Additionally, the company is required to issue an unconditional public apology through its official channels and major newspapers. Advocate Amita Sachdeva stated that if appropriate actions are not taken within the stipulated time, the matter will be escalated to court.
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