A nightclub in Bali recently faced backlash after using an image of Lord Shiva as the background during a DJ performance. This incident sparked outrage among the Hindu community, leading to discussions of filing a subpoena against the venue.
The video, which quickly went viral on social media, showed a bustling nightclub filled with visitors enjoying electronic music. Large images and symbols of Lord Shiva were prominently displayed behind the DJ, creating a striking visual that many found inappropriate.
@balinews.id2Masyarakat Bali kembali dihebohkan dengan beredarnya sebuah video yang diduga melecehkan simbol Agama Hindu. Dalam video yang viral tersebut, tampak penayangan visual Dewa Siwa di salah satu beach club terbesar di Bali, yang disertai dengan musik keras. Anggota DPD RI Bali, I Gusti Ngurah Arya Wedakarna melalui media sosialnya, menegaskan bahwa seharusnya pihak beach club bisa memilah dan tau mana yang merupakan simbol-simbol keagamaan umat hindu. Editor : Raditya Timor Selengkapnya di www.balinews.id
As reported by DetikBali, Putu Wirata Dwikora, Secretary of the Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia (PHDI) Bali, expressed the community’s discontent, stating, “Hindus feel harassed and tainted by their beliefs because gods who should be sanctified and worshipped in temples and other holy places were instead placed in inappropriate places.”
He emphasized that while the community is open to hearing the nightclub’s reasoning, they find no acceptable justification for such an action.
Viral Incident Sparks Outrage
The incident occurred on January 30, 2025, at the Atlas Super Club in North Kuta. According to I Gusti Agung Ketut Suryanegara, head of the Badung Satpol PP, the controversial visuals were displayed without prior approval from the management.
In response to the public outcry, the management of Atlas Super Club issued an apology, acknowledging their mistake.
They clarified that there was no intention to disrespect Hindu religious symbols. Despite the apology, the nightclub received a warning letter from local authorities reminding them to respect the local customs and cultural practices, particularly those related to Hinduism.
The situation has prompted the PHDI Bali to prepare a formal open subpoena, addressed to the Bali Police, to address the perceived harassment of Hinduism.
The organization continues to advocate for respect and understanding of their beliefs in the community.