Kerala restaurant owner arrested over Vishu poster featuring Shri Krishna and chicken dish

Shamir said that the restaurant had no intention of hurting religious sentiments and offered an unconditional apology

April 17, 2026

Vishu greeting controversy: Restaurant owner arrested in Kerala

VHP announces protest outside restaurant

A restaurant owner in Kerala has been arrested after a Vishu greeting poster featuring Shri Krishna alongside a non-vegetarian dish triggered protests from Hindu organisations, police said.

The accused, identified as Arshad, owns Mehar Mandi & Grills, located near Manorama Junction in Cherthala.

Police have registered a case under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to deliberate and malicious acts intended to provoke communal disturbance. The offence carries a punishment of up to one year in prison.

Poster sparks controversy

The controversy erupted after a Vishu greeting image circulated on social media showing Shri Krishna seated before a plate of rice with grilled chicken. Several Hindu groups objected to the depiction, alleging that it hurt religious sentiments.

A complaint in the matter was filed by Thanneermukkom-based advocate MV Biju.

Meanwhile, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has announced a protest outside the restaurant later in the day.

Restaurant issues apology

Earlier, one of the firm’s managing partners, Shamir, issued an apology through Instagram, stating that the image was not intended for public circulation.

According to him, the post was initially shared within a private group, where objections were raised. He said the image was later forwarded due to a miscommunication and spread widely before it could be taken down.

Shamir added that the restaurant had no intention of hurting religious sentiments and offered an unconditional apology, urging that the matter be allowed to settle.

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