A Virginia craft brewery has found itself in the midst of controversy over the name of one of its beers.
Olde Salem Brewing of Salem, Virginia released a Spanish milk stout name Hanuman. Little did the brewery know that Hanuman is an important figure to Hindus in the United States and across the globe. Known as Lord Hanuman, this diety is considered the God of Strength, Knowledge, and Bhakti; a destroyer of evil and protector of devotees. Rajan Zed, president of the Universal Society of Hinduism, says the use of Hanuman’s name to promote beer is highly offensive to Hindu practitioners.
“He’s highly revered by Hindus”, said Zed. “When you associate Hanuman with an alcoholic beverage, that is highly disrespectful”, Zed added.
Olde Salem Brewing is claiming ignorance in the matter, stating they had no idea that there was a Hindu God with this name. When asked to comment, Olde Salem Brewing issued the following statement:
“Olde Salem Brewing Company strives to foster an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere in which all patrons can enjoy our craft beer. When naming our Spanish milk stout “Hanuman” we were unaware of the Hindu deity referenced by Rajan Zed. This name was purely a musical reference and had no other intent. We are reviewing options to address the situation and welcome Mr. Zed to reach out to us directly so we can work together to find an appropriate solution. We apologize if this inadvertent association has offended anyone in anyway. “
There doesn’t appear to be anything intentional here. If you check the Olde Salem Brewing web site, the descriptions of the beer’s title back up the musical claim. In fact, several of the brewery’s products have names that were inspired by song titles. Zed accepts the mistake, but hopes the brewery will drop the product or change the name.
“It’s just ignorance,” Zed said. “As I learned, they are doing a great job in the upbringing of downtown Salem and helping other businesses and doing a lot of other good things. We have nothing against them. We are just requesting this [dropping the product or changing its name] of them and it is up to them to do it,” Zed added.
As an active Buddhist I am surprised at this controversy. I see so many beer labels and bottle shapes reflecting eastern religions and beliefs and this is the first time I have ever heard someone complain about it. I’m my studies, Hinduism has not been in the history of being easily offended as they typically are loving, understanding, forgiving practitioners whom choose to educate vs complain. Use this as an educational and enlightening opportunity! This can bring new respect, understanding and knowledge to Hinduism , which therefore could decrease conflict and fear of the unknown. Just a thought…..
I see your point and generally agree. The fact that the name of a Hindu God is being used can serve to encourage inquiry, which can then serve to educate the public.
Why should anyone care? There are religious references of all types all over beer labels. If you don’t like it, don’t support it. More fake outrage. Get over it.
I think the reaction is a tad much, too. Imagine if every religious group voiced outrage over the use of their holy dieties or symbols on beer labels? Every other group seems to deal with it with no problem.
Sounds like an honest mistake and the brewery is willing to work with Mr. Zed. I’ll be keeping an eye on this story in the future.