Singer Zubeen Garg to receive PETA's 'Hero to Animals Award'
Singer Zubeen Garg would be awarded the "Hero to Animals Award" from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India for his recent appeal to end animal sacrifice at the Kamakhya Temple in Assam. "We commend Zubeen for being a voice for animals and calling for an end to animal sacrifices," PETA India Associate Director of Celebrity and Public Relations Sachin Bangera said.
Kamakhya Temple priests criticized Zubeen and demanded an apology
Zubeen had expressed his anguish over the ritual of animal sacrifice and appealed for putting an end to the practice while performing at a Bihu function near the temple recently. The priests of the Kamakhya Temple subsequently criticised Zubeen for his statement and demanded an apology. The singer, however, did not apologize saying that this was his he cannot tolerate cruelty to animals.
All religions call for compassion and not killing: Bangera
"All religions call for compassion and not hacking animals to death," said Bangera. Last year, PETA India and People for Animals, the Municipal Council of Kullu had issued an executive order refusing to grant permission for animal sacrifices on the last day of the Kullu Dussehra festival. Other recipients of the award include actors Asin, Zarine Khan, Rani Mukerji, Sadaa Sayed, and Shilpa Shetty.
