We all know that slots developers like to have a bit of fun when they get creative with their design of their slots. However, they have been known to take their creativity a little too far – and, offend some people in the process.

This week, a company called Merkur Gaming has been criticised by Hindu leader Rajan Zed for depicting the Lord Shiva in a recent slots title.

The Game

‘Shiva’ is a 5-reel 50-payline online slots game from Merkur Gaming. The title features the Lord Shiva as well as various Hindu and Indian symbols, such as monkeys, elephants and the Taj Mahal.

You can view the game below:

Zed’s Argument

Rajan Zed has criticised the game on behalf of the Hindu community, for using the religion’s deity in a casino game.

He states that Hindu gods should only be worshipped in temples and home shrines – and they are not to be used in the promotion of slots games and other commercial ventures. He has requested that the games developer pull the game and issue an apology.

Hindu Beliefs on Gambling

Hinduism is one of many religions that prohibit gambling. The topic has been covered in a wide range of Hindu scriptures, such as: “Play not with dice: No, cultivate thy corn land. Enjoy the gain and deem that wealth sufficient” (Rigved 10:34:13)

Other Instances

This is the second time in recent history that a slots developer has come under fire for producing a game that depicts Hindu gods. In 2012, PlayTech released a game called Lakshmi’s God, which featured Ganesh and Lakshmi.

The title was only out for a few weeks before Rajan Zed issued a statement about the game’s offensive nature and demanded an apology. PlayTech took the game down shortly afterwards.

Earlier this year, another similar controversy occurred – except it did not take place in the gambling market. Rajan Zed called out Cervejaria Colorado, a beer producer in Brazil for its new beer called Vishnu.

A 9.5% ale, it was actually very popular and won a gold medal at this year’s Brazil Beer Festival. Again, he took issue with the fact that a Hindu god’s name was being used to promote a commercial product.

Our Thoughts

Religion is certainly a sensitive subject, and games developers should tread lightly around it. We’re sure that religious leaders of any denomination would take issue with their faith being used to promote casino games, so slots developers may want to take bit more care when developing their themes.

At this time, Merkur Games seems to have removed Shiva from its site. However, the company has not issued a statement.