Officials at the Universal Society of Hinduism have demanded an apology from Selena Gomez, 20, after the former Disney star performed at the MTV Movie Awards on Sunday sporting a bindi symbol on her forehead.
DNAIndia reports, several Hindu leaders have dubbed Gomez's "Come & Get It" performance "insensitive" and have urged her not to repeat the act in her upcoming world tour.
According to Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, the bindi on the forehead is an ancient Hindu practice that has a religious significance sometimes referred to as "the third eye and flame" and is not meant to be used as a fashion accessory.
Zed encouraged the singer to apologize for her mistake and to learn more about world religions.
Gomez also got complaints about her costume of choice via Twitter on Sunday.
"Someone please tell me why tf Selena Gomez is wearing an indian bindi on her forehead," wrote Twitter user @MommaNazaaza during her performance.
Someone please tell me why tf Selena Gomez is wearing an indian bindi on her forehead
— Twinky (@MommaNazaaza) April 15, 2013
"Selena Gomez, take that bindi of your head, cultural appropriation is not cute. And neither is your singing," @therealanisha tweeted after the show.
Selena Gomez, take that bindi of your head, cultural appropriation is not cute. And neither is your singing.
— Neesh. (@therealanisha) April 15, 2013
The 20-year-old singer has not yet made any comments regarding her performance or the criticism.
Get More: 2013 MTV Movie Awards, Latest Movie News, Selena Gomez
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