Guwahati, September 19, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Music composer and singer Salim Merchant faced criticism from a section of social media users after sharing pictures from his visit to the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam.
Salim posted photographs with a friend, with both seen standing outside the temple with folded hands after seeking blessings. He was dressed in a white T-shirt and dark trousers, with a red religious stole around his shoulders and a garland around his neck.
Sharing the photographs on social media, Salim wrote in Hindi: “Shakti ke charanon mein, Om Aim Hreem Kleem Kamakhye Namah.”
The post received several positive responses, including heart and folded-hands emojis and messages seeking Maa Kamakhya’s blessings. However, some users questioned his decision to visit the temple and his expression of devotion, with a few comments invoking Islamic religious beliefs.
Among the comments were remarks such as, “Astaghfirullah from all Muslims side,” while another user questioned his actions in the context of the Islamic concept of shirk. A third comment asked him not to repeatedly invoke Ali or mention the Ahl al-Bayt.
This is not the first time Salim’s expressions of devotion towards Hindu deities have sparked discussion online.
In March 2026, Salim spoke about his practice of offering prayers to Lord Shiva on Mondays while also observing Jummah prayers on Fridays. He said he respects both religions and described his connection with God and music as something difficult to put into words.
On the professional front, Salim is one half of the composer duo Salim-Sulaiman, alongside his elder brother Sulaiman Merchant. The brothers have worked together for more than three decades and have composed music and background scores for several Hindi films, including Chak De! India, Fashion, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and Band Baaja Baaraat.
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