A religious festival in Tamil Nadu's Kancheepuram district has sparked controversy after a hoarding for the 'Aadi' festival featured a picture of former adult film star Mia Khalifa. The hoarding, which included festive lights at Nagathamman and Selliyamman temples in Kuruvimalai, went viral due to Khalifa's image appearing alongside the deities.
The image of Mia Khalifa was altered to show her carrying a 'paal kudam' (milk vessel), a traditional offering in the festival dedicated to Shakti or divine energy, according to a report on India Today. This incident has caused a stir among festival attendees and social media users alike.
The 'Aadi' festival, celebrated across Tamil Nadu is dedicated to Goddess Amman (Parvathi) and involves grand festivities in each village with thousands participating over several days. In Tamil Nadu, the monsoon season typically starts in the month of Aadi, leading to a rise in the water levels of the rivers. As a result, 'Aadi Perukku' is celebrated to thank the waterbodies.
The inclusion of Khalifa's image has raised questions about the oversight and authenticity of the festival's promotional materials. The individuals responsible for the hoarding had included their contact details in the form of Aadhaar cards, further drawing attention to the incident.
Mia Khalifa, in previous interviews, has discussed her brief stint in the adult film industry and the challenges she faced afterward. In a 2016 interview with The Washington Post, she explained that she performed in pornography for only three months and had left the industry to pursue a more conventional career. Despite her departure, the label continued to follow her.
In an earlier interview with the BBC, Mia explained that her inexperience led her into the industry, and even after she eventually quit, the label continued to follow her.
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