(Image source from: Non-bailable warrant issued to Dhoni over controversial cover page})

A Vijaywada local court in Seemandhara has issued a non-bailable warrant to MS Dhoni against his portrayal as Hindu god Vishnu on the cover page of a magazine. Dhoni has to give an explanation on his stance on the issue on 25 February 2016 in the court.

A local VHP leader, Shyam Sunder has filed the case in 2014, objecting Business today’s cover in 2013 that depicted Dhoni as the ‘God of Big deals’. He was portrayed holding several products in his bands including a shoe in of his hands.

Sportskeeda quoted Sunder as saying that, “I am very happy that the court has finally taken the right stance today, that particular picture hurts hindu sentiments. Not just mine, but of several others as well. Even if he was asked to do it, he shouldn’t have gone ahead with it, considering his influential position.”

Justice A N Gowda said, “A celebrity and a cricketer like Dhoni should know the consequences of hurting religious sentiments of people. He should have known the consequences of doing such ads. These celebrities are only signing ads without any responsibility. Their aim is to earn easy money without considering the problems it may create."

In a statement last year, Dhoni stated, “I haven't received any remuneration/goodwill or money for the news article or for usage of my picture on the cover page or anywhere else. Neither have I posed for the picture which was published in the magazine on April 14, 2013.”  

A total of three cases were filed already against MS concerning the issue. Dhoni finally needs to appear to prove his innocence in the court.

-Sumana