Brewery Apologizes for Using Gandhi on Beer Can

New England Brewing Co. issued an apology via social media

A Connecticut brewery has apologized for selling beer that uses the name and likeness of modern India's founder, Mohandas Gandhi.

New England Brewing Co. in Woodbridge apologized over the weekend on its Facebook page for the beer, Gandhi-Bot, which it describes as an India pale ale.

Critics in the U.S. and India have complained about the commercial use of Gandhi, revered for leading India to independence through nonviolence.

Proloy K. Das, a Hartford lawyer, tweeted that Connecticut "should be ashamed to be home" to New England Brewing. He did not immediately return a call or email seeking comment.

The company said it its Facebook apology that its intent "is not to offend anyone but rather pay homage and celebrate a man who we respect greatly." 

"We take great care in creating a product we hope will not be abused in the manner that Mahatma Gandhi spoke of when referencing alcohol," the statement continued. "So many Indian people here in America love our tribute to him. Gandhi's granddaughter and grandson have seen the label and have expressed their admiration of the label. We hope that you understand our true intent and learn to respect our method and the freedom we have to show our reverence for Gandhi."

It was unclear if New England Brewing was going to continue to sell the product. The company referred questions to its Facebook posting.

Another post they shared after the apology included a photo that showed it still on the menu.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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