Louis Vuitton Angers Hindu Activist For Selling Yoga Mat Made Of Cowhide Leather
Image via Zigres / Shutterstock.com
A Hindu activist has accused luxury brand Louis Vuitton of being “hugely insensitive” after it started retailing a yoga mat made partly from cowhide leather.
Rajan Zed, the president of the Universal Society of Hinduism, said that the mat is “highly inappropriate” as cows are regarded as sacred symbols of life in Hinduism.
“The scenario of yoga—a profound, sacred and ancient discipline introduced and nourished by Hinduism—being performed of a mat made from a killed cow is painful,” Zed explained.
The yoga mat, which retails for US$2,390, is made of canvas and boasts a cowhide carrying strap. According to the Associated Press, Zed has requested for Louis Vuitton executives to apologize and adhere to its own corporate code of conduct, which includes being committed to ethical and social responsibility.
In the email to AP, Zed explained that Louis Vuitton should step away from commercial activities that involve “religious appropriation, sacrilege, mocking serious spiritual practices and ridiculing entire communities.”
Image via Louis Vuitton
Image via Louis Vuitton
Image via Louis Vuitton
[via Associated Press, cover image via Zigres / Shutterstock.com]
Also check out these recent news
