I didn’t realise the symbol’s sanctity: Mandira

CHANDIGARH: Popular TV star Mandira Bedi tendered an unconditional apology on Monday to Jathedar Joginder Singh Vedanti, head priest of the Akal Takht, for displaying a tattoo of ‘Ek Onkaar’, a Sikh religious symbol, while dancing at a ramp show. In her apology, Mandira said it happened inadvertently without her realising the sanctity of the symbol.

Mandira had evoked strong reactions from the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandak Committee and other Sikh organisations for allegedly insulting the Sikh emblem. SGPC secretary Harbeant Singh said the semi-clad actress had earlier also attempted to belittle the Sikhs at some programmes in Mumbai.

Demanding unconditional apology from her, the secretary said this time she had hurt the sentiments of the Sikhs by her cavalier display of the pious Sikh symbol. On Sunday, Akali Dal activists burnt her effigy in Amritsar and demanded that the Akal Takht jathedar summon her to the august Sikh seat for punishment.

Mandira’s apology, addressed to all other religious heads as well, came within a day of the storm building up against her in the holy city.

The Takht jathedar said the matter stood buried after the TV actress sought an apology, but added that this should be taken as a stern warning to all others who tend to undermine Sikh sentiments.