Cardi B Apologises for Hurting Hindu Sentiments

Rapper, Cardi B, found herself in hot water earlier this week, when the cover of her photoshoot for ‘Footwear Magazine’ came under fire for cultural appropriation. In the photograph, the ‘WAP’ hitmaker strikes a pose inspired by the Hindu goddess, Durga. Much like commercial representations of the goddess, Cardi B was photographed with 10 hands. Further, she’s holding a shoe while striking the pose.

Now, Twitter near-immediately erupted with criticism and backlash in light of the picture, and the photoshoot’s theme. While most comments brought attention towards insensitivity and cultural appropriation, some went so far as to levy claims of racism against Cardi B and the publication.

Following the discourse on the Twittersphere, Cardi took to Instagram stories to respond to the matter. In one story, she wrote, “Sorry guys. I didn’t mean to offend or disrespect anybody’s culture. I can’t change the past but I’ll be more cautious for the future. Love you guys.” Further, she added, “The creatives told me I was going to represent a Goddess; that she represents strength, femininity and liberation, and that’s something I love and I’m all about.’ She then continued, “I do not like offending anyone’s religion; I wouldn’t like it if someone did it to my religion.”

In addition, Footwear Magazine themselves went on to comment on the situation. They wrote, “She [Cardi B] pays homage to Durga, the Hindu goddess, whose symbols of protection and inner strength resonate as much in modern times as they have through the centuries. Like Durga, Cardi B is a dominant female voice at a critical time.” But, that only made things worse. Netizens were quick to point out that the pictorial does not pay homage, but disrespects Hindu culture.

By: Ahalya Narayanan