Baby Skello’s blasphemous song: Culture Minister slams vulgar attack on Hindu faith

…calls for apology, respect

Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Charles Ramson Jr has condemned the recent song by local performer Baby Skello, stating that the content is offensive and constitutes an attack not only on Hindu religious beliefs but on the very values that define Guyana.
In a statement released by the Ministry on Friday, it was underscored that religion stands as a cornerstone of Guyanese culture.
“Religion is an important part of culture. This is especially true in Guyana, where religious beliefs and practices occupy a space that is fundamental to the values that make us Guyanese… Even if unintended, it must be seen not just as an attack on an entire religion but also on the core values of us as Guyanese,” the Minister stated.
He added that the outrage expressed by Hindus and Guyanese of all religions is justified, particularly when a song disrespects a Hindu goddess in what he described as “the most vulgar and depraved expression.”
Ramson Jr emphasised that even if the offence was not the artist’s original intention, the damage remains significant.

“There exists a red line where freedom of expression ends, and the protection of religion and people who hold their religion close to their being begins. While it has been argued time immemorial that there are no moral experts, a society that lacks moral values instilled has already written its eulogy. Religious organisations and parents have arguably the most important role in the morality instillation process.”
The release further emphasised that Guyana prides itself on being a multi-cultural society that epitomises religious freedom and respect.
The Minister highlighted that Guyanese have moved beyond merely recognising religious freedom and tolerance—enshrined in the country’s supreme law, the Constitution—to actively engaging in inter-religious participation.
This cultural norm he added, is unique and not commonly found in other parts of the world.
“It is so common for Guyanese of all religions to participate and enjoy religious events such as Christmas, Phagwah, Eid, Easter, Diwali, etc, wear religious clothing, enjoy religious food—that it has become our way of life, our Guyanese Culture,” he said.
“This culture, however, is not common in all parts of the world, which constantly searches for conflict. This culture is something we as Guyanese should be proud of—but pride is not enough. Recognition, respect, and protection are all important.”
Ramson acknowledged that music is a form of creative expression and that freedom of expression is a fundamental constitutional right. However, he cautioned that such freedom is not limitless.
“Creative expression finds its genesis and germinating environment in freedom of expression. Freedom of expression is not however unbridled and we as Guyanese must either learn that or never forget that,” he stated.
He added “The framers of the Constitution recognised the dangers of unbridled freedom of expression by carving out exceptions. These exceptions acknowledge that freedom of expression is not inconsistent with respect for religious freedom. In fact, it protects religious expression. It is not creative expression which should be protected when it is offensive to any religion. It must be seen for what it is, and all Guyanese must condemn such expression.”
He added that Guyanese have the freedom to create and the freedom to destroy, however that freedom begins with a choice.
This he mentioned, determines actions, and ultimately determines outcomes.
The song must be taken down, an apology is appropriate, and the institutions are within their right to act to protect our values as a society.”