The News Minute | September 26, 2014 | 2.12 pm IST

Argentine artists’ portrayal of the Barbie doll as religious figures including a Hindu goddess, has invited criticism

According to a report published in The Hindu, Marianela Perelli and Pool Paolini had portrayed the Barbie doll as the Hindu goddess Kali, and as the Virgin Mary for an exhibition to be held in Buenos Aires in October. The doll’s partner Ken had been shown as the crucified Jesus and other saints. This has invited the criticism of Hindu groups in the United States and an Italian website backed by the Italian bishops conference.

Rajan Zed said: “Hindus welcome the art world to immerse in Hinduism but taking it seriously and respectfully and not for refashioning Hinduism concepts and symbols for personal agendas. Barbie-fication of Kali is simply improper, wrong and out of place.”

The Italian website SIR said in an editorial: “What is the difference between provocation and bad taste?”