Social media trends change very quickly, and so do public reactions. One post can go viral in minutes, and sometimes it can also bring unexpected controversy for a brand. That is exactly what has happened with a Kerala-based restaurant after its Vishu festive post sparked strong reactions online and turned into a widely discussed topic.Meher Mandi & Grills, located in Cherthala, is now at the center of an online debate after its Vishu greeting on social media received criticism from users who felt the content was not appropriate.
How the viral controversy began
The issue started when the restaurant posted a Vishu greeting on its social media pages. The post included an image showing Lord Krishna along with a non-vegetarian chicken dish.Many users reacted strongly to this combination. For a large section of people, Lord Krishna is associated with vegetarian offerings, especially during religious festivals like Vishu.
Because of this, the post was seen as insensitive by some viewers.As the image circulated online, the reactions quickly increased and the topic gained attention across platforms.
Social media users express strong reactions
The post led to sharp responses from users, with many questioning the thought process behind the content.One user commented: “Bro, What’s Apology? Where is the first step of the Basic Cultural sense? Where is yours or your designers sensitivity to Hindus and their festivals gone? What is a mere apology? Why take the first step in the first place?”Another user called for action and said: “Use the power of social media.
Start a campaign. Boycott their products, their business. Cancel them in public life… Unless you bring them down to their knees they will not learn.”
FIR registered, owners released on bail
As the row intensified, an FIR was filed against the restaurant owners under Section 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for allegedly provoking with intent to cause a riot. As reported by The Indian Express, the accused, Arshad Asharaf and Shamnas Kunhimuhammed, who run Meher Mandi & Grills in Cherthala, were booked based on a complaint by a local resident.
The owners were later released on bail after their statements were recorded and maintained that there was no intent to hurt religious sentiments.
Restaurant responds with apology
As criticism increased, Meher Mandi & Grills issued an apology video on Instagram. In the video, the owners expressed regret over the post.They explained that the design work had been outsourced and said there was a mistake in reviewing the final content before it was published.
The restaurant clarified that the post was not intentional and assured that such an incident would not happen again.
Users continue to question the explanation
Even after the apology, some users were not fully convinced by the response. Many felt that responsibility still lies with the business itself.One user wrote: “Outsourcing the design, but the idea has to come from the company. This was done deliberately, not by mistake.”Another comment said: “This is not a ‘mistake.’ These people deliberately mock Hindu beliefs and deities, then issue a weak, insensitive apology after backlash… Are Hindu sentiments so cheap and freely available?”Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information, social media posts, and media reports. The publication has not independently verified all claims. The statements and reactions mentioned reflect the views of individuals online and do not necessarily represent the publication’s opinion.Thumb image: X
