GEORGE TOWN: A video showing a Muslim cleric insulting Hinduism and Ganesha (the Elephant God) while calling on Muslims to boycott the popular Alagappa brand curry powder, has caused a stir among Hindus nationwide.
Many Penang-based Hindu groups, including MIC, PPP, the Malaysia Hindu Youth Council and the Malaysia Hindu Sangam have lodged reports against Ustaz Shahrul Hamid.
The video went viral on social media and micro-blogging sites on Monday.
The Hindu groups have urged authorities to take firm and stern action against Shahrul.
A demonstration, led by MIC national youth chief C. Sivarajah, was held in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur today and police reports, lodged.
However, apparently another video recording has gone viral since late yesterday showing Shahrul apologising to Malaysians, especially the Indian community, for his offensive remarks, if any.
Shahrul claimed that the video showing him insulting Hinduism and making his boycott call on Alagappa curry powder was uploaded without his knowledge or permission by certain unknown quarters with bad intentions.
The forum, said Shahrul, was all about “halal and haram” in Muslim life.
“In the course of my speech, I may have spoken certain words that could be construed as an insult to the Indian community.
“I apologise for any offensive remarks that might have insulted and hurt the Indians or others.
“I can assure that it would never happen again,” said Shahrul.
Alagappa curry powder products are manufactured by a company based in Bukit Mertajam.