– calls mount for public apology, removal of offensive material from all digital platforms

THE Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha has publicly registered its concern about the contents of Guyanese singer, Baby Skello’s new music video, which mocks a Hindu goddess.

In a press release, the religious organisation said that the Hindu community is “outraged and deeply offended” by the video’s vulgar and disrespectful lyrics and content.

“His obscene lyrics gravely disparage Maha Lakshmi who is revered and worshipped by Hindus globally.

“Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha calls on the Ethnic Relations Commission and the Guyana Police Force to take condign action against this artiste. He should be held accountable for his actions and also publicly apologise to the Hindu community and withdraw the song,” the release said.

The release added that while the Hindu community is peaceful and respects all faiths and people across our country, the attacks on their religion and practices have not gone unnoticed.

“The Hindu community strongly rejects this distasteful and completely unwarranted narrative. We are also deeply concerned about the continued disrespect to women being portrayed by performers in the name of music and art, recognising its impact in driving harassment and violence against women and girls.

“We call on all Guyanese and the wider community to join us in condemning this artiste and his disgusting song and video,” the release said.

Meanwhile, the ERC in a statement Thursday afternoon said it condemns the blasphemous and obscene depiction of the Hindu deity

“The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) strongly condemns the recent circulation of a song by the performer known as Baby Skello, which portrays the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi in a vulgar, sexually explicit, and blasphemous manner.

This content constitutes a deeply offensive act that strikes at the heart of the Hindu community’s religious beliefs and is wholly unacceptable in a society that values mutual respect and coexistence,” the statement said.

The Commission noted that it firmly believes that freedom of expression carries with it the responsibility to respect the religious and cultural traditions of all groups in Guyana.

“Any content that mocks, insults, or degrades sacred religious figures undermines social harmony and offends the values of decency
and tolerance that Guyanese society upholds,” it said.

Further, the statement noted that as part of its response, the ERC formally requests that Baby Skello remove the song from all
digital platforms and cease all forms of public dissemination of the material.

“The Commission views this action as a necessary step toward mitigating further harm and signaling that such expressions have no place in our plural society.
“The ERC also affirms that it will explore all legal avenues available under the laws of Guyana in addressing this matter. Discussions are underway with the relevant authorities to determine appropriate legal action and ensure accountability.

“In addition, the Commission will intensify its efforts to engage with stakeholders, including artistes, producers, and media platforms—to promote awareness of the importance of religious respect. Educational campaigns will be launched to reinforce those values, especially among
younger audiences and content creators.

“The ERC remains steadfast in its mandate to protect the rights, dignity, and beliefs of all Guyanese and to ensure that acts of religious disrespect are met with decisive and lawful responses,” the statement said.