Omme-God! Religious Controversy Surrounds CNY Brewed ‘Nirvana’ Beer

Omme-God! Religious Controversy Surrounds CNY Brewed ‘Nirvana’ Beer

credit: Canva

The owners of a Central New York brewery are reacting to those who object to the name of one of their best brews.

The issue was highlighted in a New York Post article this week where some leaders of the Buddhist and Hindu religions said they took exception to use of the word 'Nirvana' - the name of a an IPA made by Cooperstown's Ommegang Brewery:

“Upset Hindus and Buddhists are urging Cooperstown, NY based Ommegang to apologize and withdraw its ‘Nirvana’ beer,” according to a statement issued by Rajan Zed, president of Universal Society of Hinduism and Buddhist minister, Matthew Fisher.

The men of cloth said slapping the word ‘Nirvana’ on a beer is “deeply trivializing” of the sacred term and “equating it with alcohol was very painful to the devotees.”

In response to the criticism, the Ommegang released the following statement to WIBX 950, saying they don't want to disrespect any community, explaining why they named the beer 'Nirvana', and also saying they are giving consideration to making a change.

Nirvana Beer - via Ommegang.com
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Statement provided to WIBX 950 from Ommegang Brewery:

"The name "Nirvana IPA" is intended to celebrate the atmosphere in which we hope beer lovers will enjoy the beer, which is that of tranquility when the noise and cares of the world fall away. Brewery Ommegang began distribution of Nirvana IPA in 2015; however, until today, we were unaware of the apparent concern with the name within the Hindu & Buddhist communities. We never intended to disrespect any community or religious beliefs by including "Nirvana" in naming the IPA. We welcome the opportunity to educate ourselves and determine what potential changes we could consider for this beer."
Meanwhile, the religious leader quoted in the story says not only in there an objection to the brewery's use of the word, he also called out other businesses like nail or beauty salons that may use words like 'Zen' in their name.

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Filed Under: Nirvana, brewery ommegang, ommegang
Categories: Featured, WIBX News