By Krishna Bagdiya, Aix-en-Provence, France

I am an Indian of Hindu origin living in France. I read the news that sculptor Ryan McCourt was forced to remove his Hindu god Ganesha statues from public display because they offended Canadian Hindus.

I find nothing offensive about this, as I am a student of Indian mythology.

The artists of each generation have the right to reinterpret symbols. Of course, if a lay person desecrates Hindu symbols, the Hindu community's protest is justified. But when a reputed artist does it, it is in the long run a positive sign.

I don't find the sculptures outrageous at all. Look at the traditional tantric representations of Kali, an avatar of Parvati, the mother of Ganesha, if you want to be really shocked.

Ganesha has been depicted in all possible ways. M.F. Hussain, the Indian Picasso, has taken great freedom with Hindu symbols, provoking outrage by fanatics and appreciation by the enlightened.

The Hindu community has nothing to fear from Ryan McCourt's work. He is promoting their god in a modern, post-industrial avatar. The traditional Ganesha can be seen everywhere, even at your neighbourhood Indian store, for the sensitive believer.

I pray to Ganesha to protect the artists from narrow-mindedness.