Canadian rapper Tommy Genesis has ignited widespread controversy after appearing as Hindu goddess Maa Kali in an explicit promotional video for her latest track, True Blue.
The visual—featuring Genesis in blue body paint, gold jewellery, and a crucifix—has prompted backlash from both Hindu and Christian communities, accusing the artist of cultural appropriation and religious disrespect.
Genesis, who is of Tamil and Swedish descent, released the provocative clip ahead of her upcoming album Genesis. The video includes scenes of the rapper performing a ‘namaste’ gesture while wearing a gold bikini and stilettos, as well as a controversial moment where she licks a crucifix—elements many found deeply offensive.
Social media platforms were quick to erupt. One outraged user remarked, “My culture isn’t your aesthetic,” while another described the performance as “pathetic and disrespectful.” Members of the Christian community were equally vocal, citing offence over the use of religious symbols in a sexually charged context.
Despite the growing uproar, Tommy Genesis has yet to address the controversy. The incident has rekindled long-standing debates around cultural representation in pop culture and the boundaries between artistic expression and religious sensitivity.
The backlash serves as another reminder of the complex intersection between art, identity, and faith, and how crossing those lines can ignite global discourse in seconds.
