Tampering of images is common but gets close to blasphemy when it comes to using images of Gods or Gurus casually. Golf Digest, the world's most popular golf magazine, apologized to the Sikh community for depicting a Sikh Guru as a golfer. According to the Sikh American Legal Defence and Education Fund (SALDEF), Jerry Tarde, the editor-in-chief and chairman of Golf Digest magazine, has apologized to the Sikh community for using a picture of Guru Arjan Dev Ji in its May 2008 issue.
The advertisement depicted him as a "golfing guru," clutching a golf club and giving guidance. Tarde claimed in a written statement to SALDEF, "Our editors regret this mistake and have learned an important lesson."
What was the article about?
In the opening of the article, there is an illustration that initially depicts a man of South Asian descent wearing a turban and sporting a beard. He is seen holding a golf club and wearing a glove, creating a visual representation of a "Golf Guru" who answers inquiries. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that the image employed by Golf Digest is actually a widely circulated picture of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru of Sikhism.
Guru Arjan Dev Ji played a pivotal role in reinforcing the principles of equality and religious freedom within the Sikh faith. In response to this matter, SALDEF, an organization dedicated to Sikh American advocacy, has reached out to Thomas Blair, the publisher of Golf Digest. They expressed their concerns, stating that while they comprehend the intention behind Golf Digest's message, the decision to utilize this specific image reflects a lack of cultural and religious understanding on the part of the publication's staff and senior executives.
Apology
Golf Digest apologized publicly to the Sikh community. This decision comes after receiving requests from numerous community members. Additionally, Golf Digest has agreed to SALDEF's demand to no longer use the image in their magazine or website in the future.
The printed apology in the August 2008 edition of Golf Digest stated the following: "We have been made aware that an illustration in the May issue of Golf Digest unintentionally resembled Guru Arjan Dev Ji, a revered figure in Sikhism. We did not mean to depict this. We apologize for using the image and for any offense caused to the Sikh community."
A Sikh blogger from Washington DC brought this issue to SALDEF's attention, conducting a detailed analysis of the imagery. SALDEF had previously organized a now-closed petition urging people to express their "displeasure" regarding the image. On page 66 of the magazine, there is an article titled "The Golf Guru," which addresses various golf-related topics and answers readers' questions.
It is of utmost importance to recognize and respect the Gurus of different faiths and religions, which can be achieved by enhancing our awareness and understanding of their teachings, beliefs, and contributions. This principle holds true for Sikhism, a religion that emphasizes the significance of its revered Gurus in guiding the community towards spiritual enlightenment and social justice.
Within Sikhism, the Gurus hold a unique position as enlightened spiritual leaders who have imparted invaluable teachings to their followers. Their wisdom, principles, and actions have played a pivotal role in shaping Sikh identity and promoting values such as equality, service, and compassion. By recognizing and respecting the Sikh Gurus, we honour their teachings and the legacy they have left behind.