Hindu nationalists burn Valentine's Day cards

A group of Hindu nationalists have marched to the Indian Parliament and burned Valentine's cards.

They protested at what they called the growing western cultural influence in predominantly Hindu India.

Describing the cards as obscene because they show young couples embracing and kissing, the protesters have demanded a ban on Valentine's Day celebrations in India.

"I bought some of these cards for 150 rupees each to prove that this is not our culture. Our workers will visit various shops selling these cards and distribute handbills to educate people to avoid aping Western ways of life," said Jai Bhagwan, chief of the New Delhi unit of the Shiv Sena party, on the eve of Valentine's Day.

A young woman business executive drove past the protesters and commented: "They are being stupid. The celebrations are there and these people can't stop it."

She refused to give her name for fear of being attacked by the protesters.

Last year, young couples having Valentine's Day meals ran for safety as slogan-shouting men, claiming to represent the Shiv Sena party, smashed potted plants, tossed chairs and knocked over people's trays in a Wimpy's fast food restaurant in New Delhi's central Connaught Place.

Shiv Sena activists also ransacked gift shops of the Archies Gallery stores and tore up cards. Attacks were also reported from other Indian cities, including Bombay and Lucknow.

The Shiv Sena threat appeared to be working in the Indian capital this year.

"Our sale of Valentine's Day cards is very slow. It is down by nearly 70% as compared to last year," said Rohit Gujral, whose card shop was festooned with handmade heart ornaments and banners proclaiming it "the coolest place to be in love."