The strength of Guyana’s national identity lies in its cultural diversity and the mutual respect and unity that bind its people. For generations, Guyanese have embraced a unique model of coexistence, where various religious and ethnic backgrounds blend harmoniously to form one nation. This harmony, however, was recently shaken by the release of a song by a local insignificant singer, Baby Skello, who is hankering for 15 minutes of fame among his Afro-Guyanese crowd. Many, including religious leaders, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens, have condemned the song as deeply offensive to Hindu religious beliefs.
The recent disrespect directed toward Hinduism by specific individuals in Guyana is both alarming and unacceptable. These attacks reflect a profound lack of understanding and education, not only about Hinduism itself but also about the values of respect, harmony, and coexistence that define Guyanese society.
It is unfortunate that some individuals, constrained by narrow worldviews and misled by misinformation, have chosen to use social media as a weapon to attack one of the oldest and most profound spiritual traditions on Earth. These actions do not reflect the values of most Guyanese people, who take pride in their religious tolerance and cultural respect.
Hinduism is not just a religion; it is a civilization that has enriched the world for over 12,000 years. It has given rise to Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism—paths of peace, meditation, and self-realization. From India’s soil emerged the wisdom of the Vedas, the discipline of Yoga, the beauty of Sanskrit, and the universal messages of saints like Sai Baba, who taught compassion, humility, and love.
Comparing such a vast, historic tradition to crude misrepresentations or mocking its deities, such as “Goddess Lakshmi, the embodiment of light, prosperity, and wisdom,” is not only offensive but also reveals an ignorance of the highest order. These misinformed individuals must understand that religious disrespect is not freedom of expression; it poses a threat to social cohesion.
Hinduism’s heritage is characterized by learning, respect, and peaceful coexistence. It has influenced European and Asian languages, sciences, mathematics, and philosophies. Sanskrit, one of the world’s oldest languages, is the root of many linguistic systems globally. Its legacy cannot be erased by a vulgar song or dismissed by those who do not understand its depth.
Let it also be clear: Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, and followers of Sai Baba across the globe—numbering in the billions—will not remain silent in the face of such insults. We do not respond with hatred; instead, we respond with strength, truth, and unity.
In Guyana, the Indo-Guyanese community, which has long contributed to the nation’s economic, social, cultural, and political development, must be treated with the same respect afforded to all other groups. Indo-Guyanese comprise 39.8% of the population, forming the majority compared to Afro-Guyanese at 29.3%. The Indo-Guyanese voice is strong, and their heritage is rich. No community should feel unsafe or insulted because of their beliefs. However, the Indo-Guyanese will not tolerate any offensive songs and comments from uninformed individuals in Guyanese society.
We urge educational institutions, religious leaders, and civil organizations to take responsibility for educating those who misunderstand or misrepresent Hinduism and other religions. Ignorance must be replaced with knowledge; hatred must be replaced with dialogue.
Freedom of expression must never serve as a cover for bigotry. Guyana must remain a country where differences are respected—not mocked—and where the beauty of each religion contributes to the nation’s strength.
We must message the illiterate singer and his political masters, who are determined to create division in Guyana, that their political game is known to the Indo-Guyanese community. The Indo-Guyanese in the opposition parties, must come out publicly and condemn this buffoon singer. The Indo-Guyanese must punish them during the next general elections if they do not.
However, Pundit Ubraj Narine, a strong member of the PNC party and former Mayor of Georgetown, made this statement.
Pt. Ubraj Narine, Former Mayor of the City of Georgetown
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
“As a servant of the Hindu (Sanatan Dharma) faith, I am appalled and deeply hurt by the recent vile and profane attacks made against Goddess Lakshmi by an individual operating under the name ‘Baby Skello.” This was not a mere difference of opinion—it was a deliberate, disrespectful, and blasphemous act targeting a sacred and revered deity worshipped by millions of Hindus around the world.
Goddess Lakshmi symbolises prosperity, purity, and grace. To mock or degrade her name is not only an insult to our religious beliefs but also an affront to the dignity and spiritual identity of the Hindu community. These actions are intolerable and must be condemned by all who value religious harmony and mutual respect.
I urge the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) to awaken to its responsibility and finally do its constitutional duty. The Hindu community has raised concerns like these for far too long without sufficient action or accountability.
Any civilised society must respect religious tolerance. We expect the same protection and respect afforded to other faiths to be extended to ours. Let this moment be a turning point for justice and safeguarding sacred traditions.”
Guyana once again must stand for unity, respect, and cultural pride—not just in words, but in deeds. That is the actual test of freedom with responsibility.
Let us not descend into division; instead, let us rise in understanding. Hinduism does not seek to dominate; it seeks harmony. This buffoon of a singer mustn’t compare African voodoo from Haiti to Hinduism. The faster they learn about it, the better it will be. However, the country knows that the death of the poor girl is being used for political reasons. Nonetheless, harmony and the peaceful attitude of the Indo-Guyanese must never be mistaken for weakness.