US President-elect Donald Trump's pick for Secretary of Defence, Pete Hegseth is in headlines and a topic of discussion on social media because of his chest tattoo, a Jerusalem cross.&nbsp;

The former Fox News host has many tattoos on his body. Still, this particular one became the talk of the town once again after 2021, when Hegseth was denied working on the security team for President Joe Biden's 2021 inauguration. Many high-ranking military officials thought the tattoo was an extremist symbol.&nbsp;

A few months ago, Hegseth himself claimed this on a podcast show. "I was deemed an extremist because of a tattoo by my National Guard unit in Washington," Hegseth said in the podcast "The Shawn Ryan Show."

"Jerusalem cross tattoo, it's just a Christian symbol," he added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-names-karoline-leavitt-as-white-house-press-secretary-she-becomes-youngest-ever-to-take-charge-of-post-776568">Trump names Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary, she becomes youngest-ever to take charge of post</a>

<h2>What's The Tattoo?</h2>

The tattoo on Hegseth's chest is an image of the Jerusalem cross with four small crosses on each corner of the cross. He has another tattoo on his bicep that says "Deus Vult," which means God wills it.&nbsp;

An X user, also a Democrat supporter, shared the image of Hegseth with the tattoo and wrote, "Trump secretary of defence...are we supposed to pretend that isn't a Swastika?"&nbsp;

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Trumps secretary of defense.... are we supposed to pretend that isn't a SWASTIKA ???? <a href="https://t.co/6hPugvNCtr">pic.twitter.com/6hPugvNCtr</a>
— Claire (@ClaireFosterPHD) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClaireFosterPHD/status/1857102825903227262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Countering the post, another X user (And a Republican supporter) wrote, "Democrats think this is a Swastika."&nbsp;

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Democrats think this is a Swastika 🤣🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/tnDQIKLWzk">pic.twitter.com/tnDQIKLWzk</a>
— The Gay Republican 🇺🇲✝️🇮🇱 (@GayRepublicSwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/GayRepublicSwag/status/1857173697116660012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>An Appreciator of Jews&nbsp;</h2>

Hegseth is an Army National Guard veteran and according to his website has served in Afghanistan, Iraq Guantanamo Bay and Cuba.&nbsp;

Before joining Fox News, he unsuccessfully ran for Senate in Minnesota in 2012.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hawaii-flight-climbs-up-at-dramatic-speed-to-avoid-colliding-with-mountain-range-776570">Hawaii flight climbs up at dramatic speed to avoid colliding with mountain range</a>

In his coverage on the news channel, Hegseth has been an advocate of Israel.

In 2016, during an interview with the Jewish Press, Hegseth said, "This is not some mystical land that can be dismissed." He was referring to biblical and historical sites in Israel.&nbsp;

<h2>Hegseth's Controversial Remarks&nbsp;</h2>

Hegseth recently shared various controversial remarks such as firing "woke generals" in the military and also spoke against the combat role of women in the military, The Times of India reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President-elect Donald Trump's pick for Secretary of Defence, Pete Hegseth is in headlines and a topic of discussion on social media because of his chest tattoo, a Jerusalem cross.

US President-elect Donald Trump's pick for Secretary of Defence, Pete Hegseth is in headlines and a topic of discussion on social media because of his chest tattoo, a Jerusalem cross. The former Fox News host has many tattoos on his body. Still, this particular one became the talk of the town once again after 2021, when Hegseth was denied working on the security team for President Joe Biden's 2021 inauguration. Many high-ranking military officials thought the tattoo was an extremist symbol. A few months ago, Hegseth himself claimed this on a podcast show. "I was deemed an extremist because of a tattoo by my National Guard unit in Washington," Hegseth said in the podcast "The Shawn Ryan Show." "Jerusalem cross tattoo, it's just a Christian symbol," he added. Also read | Trump names Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary, she becomes youngest-ever to take charge of post What's The Tattoo? The tattoo on Hegseth's chest is an image of the Jerusalem cross with four small crosses on each corner of the cross. He has another tattoo on his bicep that says "Deus Vult," which means God wills it. An X user, also a Democrat supporter, shared the image of Hegseth with the tattoo and wrote, "Trump secretary of defence...are we supposed to pretend that isn't a Swastika?" Trumps secretary of defense.... are we supposed to pretend that isn't a SWASTIKA ???? pic.twitter.com/6hPugvNCtr — Claire (@ClaireFosterPHD) November 14, 2024 × Countering the post, another X user (And a Republican supporter) wrote, "Democrats think this is a Swastika." Democrats think this is a Swastika 🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/tnDQIKLWzk — The Gay Republican 🇺🇲✝️🇮🇱 (@GayRepublicSwag) November 14, 2024 × An Appreciator of Jews Hegseth is an Army National Guard veteran and according to his website has served in Afghanistan, Iraq Guantanamo Bay and Cuba. Before joining Fox News, he unsuccessfully ran for Senate in Minnesota in 2012. Also read | Hawaii flight climbs up at dramatic speed to avoid colliding with mountain range In his coverage on the news channel, Hegseth has been an advocate of Israel. In 2016, during an interview with the Jewish Press, Hegseth said, "This is not some mystical land that can be dismissed." He was referring to biblical and historical sites in Israel. Hegseth's Controversial Remarks Hegseth recently shared various controversial remarks such as firing "woke generals" in the military and also spoke against the combat role of women in the military, The Times of India reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Online uproar over Trump's Defence Secretary pick Pete Hegseth's tattoo

Uber banned a woman with name 'Swastika Chandra' from its services due to her first name, deeming it "potentially offensive."

Chandra, whose first name means 'good luck' in Sanskrit, recounted the incident while speaking to media outlet A Current Affair. She noted how she encountered a pop-up instructing her to change her name during a routine food order.

“I was putting in an order for food one afternoon and went to the payment stage and this pop-up came up saying, ‘Your first name is in violation and you need to change your name on the app’,” she reportedly said.&nbsp;

She had the knowledge that the symbol of Hitler's Nazi Party hakenkreuz is often mixed up with the swastika. However, it's important to note that the swastika itself has a long history and is an ancient symbol used in various cultures for thousands of years, often representing good fortune or well-being.

But due to the mix up, it's now widely often used&nbsp;as a symbol of hate, and antisemitism.&nbsp; “They don’t know that the Hindus used it for thousands of years,” she reportedly said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ali-khamenei-thanks-iranian-forces-for-attacking-israel-urges-them-to-learn-enemy-tactics-713597">Ali Khamenei thanks Iranian forces for attacking Israel, urges them to learn ‘enemy tactics’</a>

However, Chandra refused to alter her name on the Uber application while citing its significance in Hindu culture. After a five-month ordeal, Uber finally granted Chandra an exemption to rejoin the platform following intervention from The Hindu Council and support from the NSW Attorney-General and the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepali-family-of-child-captive-to-hamas-turns-to-intl-community-as-faith-in-nepal-govt-wanes-713592">Nepali family of child captive to Hamas turns to Int'l community, as faith in Nepal govt wanes</a>

In response, Uber apologised to Chandra. The company also acknowledged the delay in resolving the matter.&nbsp;“Uber is committed to facilitating a safe and welcoming environment for all users,” the company said in a statement adding,&nbsp;“For that reason, Uber has a global policy of restricting access to users whose names entered into the Uber app contain potentially offensive words."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-issue-sanctions-on-israeli-military-unit-for-violations-in-west-bank-713594">US to issue sanctions on Israeli military unit for violations in West Bank</a>

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“We understand that there are different cultural nuances to names, and therefore our teams address incidents like this on a case-by-case basis to ensure we evaluate each account fairly," it added.&nbsp;

Uber said that following reviewing Chandra’s request, the application was made accessible to her.&nbsp;“We have apologised to Ms Chandra for the inconvenience this caused her, and we appreciate her patience as we reviewed the matter, which took longer than we hoped it would," the statement added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Uber banned a woman with name 'Swastika Chandra' from its services due to her first name, deeming it "potentially offensive." Chandra, whose first name means 'good luck' in Sanskrit, recounted the incident while speaking to media outlet A Current Affair.

Uber banned a woman with name 'Swastika Chandra' from its services due to her first name, deeming it "potentially offensive." Chandra, whose first name means 'good luck' in Sanskrit, recounted the incident while speaking to media outlet A Current Affair. She noted how she encountered a pop-up instructing her to change her name during a routine food order. “I was putting in an order for food one afternoon and went to the payment stage and this pop-up came up saying, ‘Your first name is in violation and you need to change your name on the app’,” she reportedly said. She had the knowledge that the symbol of Hitler's Nazi Party hakenkreuz is often mixed up with the swastika. However, it's important to note that the swastika itself has a long history and is an ancient symbol used in various cultures for thousands of years, often representing good fortune or well-being. But due to the mix up, it's now widely often used as a symbol of hate, and antisemitism. “They don’t know that the Hindus used it for thousands of years,” she reportedly said. Also Read | Ali Khamenei thanks Iranian forces for attacking Israel, urges them to learn ‘enemy tactics’ However, Chandra refused to alter her name on the Uber application while citing its significance in Hindu culture. After a five-month ordeal, Uber finally granted Chandra an exemption to rejoin the platform following intervention from The Hindu Council and support from the NSW Attorney-General and the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies. Also Read | Nepali family of child captive to Hamas turns to Int'l community, as faith in Nepal govt wanes In response, Uber apologised to Chandra. The company also acknowledged the delay in resolving the matter. “Uber is committed to facilitating a safe and welcoming environment for all users,” the company said in a statement adding, “For that reason, Uber has a global policy of restricting access to users whose names entered into the Uber app contain potentially offensive words." Watch | US to issue sanctions on Israeli military unit for violations in West Bank × “We understand that there are different cultural nuances to names, and therefore our teams address incidents like this on a case-by-case basis to ensure we evaluate each account fairly," it added. Uber said that following reviewing Chandra’s request, the application was made accessible to her. “We have apologised to Ms Chandra for the inconvenience this caused her, and we appreciate her patience as we reviewed the matter, which took longer than we hoped it would," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

Uber app bans woman with name Swastika Chandra, says your first name is ...

California, which has one of the largest populations of Indian Americans, has passed legislation to legalise the sacred symbol of the swastika in its penal code.

California will become the first state in the United States to do so if Governor Gavin Newsom approves the legislation.

Highlighting the significance of the swastika in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, lawmakers also recognised the hateful Nazi emblem (Hakenkreuz).

Expressing their support for the legislation AB 2282, an interfaith coalition of religious leaders and organisations submitted a letter to California State Senate Majority Leader Bob Hertzberg.

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Welcoming the move, Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said ''We're thrilled that we're one step closer to making history in California by decriminalising the Swastika with the passage of AB2282 in the Senate.''

According to HAF managing director Samir Kalra, ''We thank Assembly member Bauer-Kahan for her continued leadership on this issue, and we urge the Governor to sign this historic legislation to better protect the religious practices of Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Zoroastrians.''

Although it became synonymous with Nazism after Adolf Hitler’s rise to power and a symbol of far-right hatred in the 1930s, the swastika was originally an ancient Hindu religious symbol.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

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&nbsp;

California, which has one of the largest populations of Indian Americans, has passed legislation to legalise the sacred symbol of the swastika in its penal code.

California, which has one of the largest populations of Indian Americans, has passed legislation to legalise the sacred symbol of the swastika in its penal code. California will become the first state in the United States to do so if Governor Gavin Newsom approves the legislation. Highlighting the significance of the swastika in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, lawmakers also recognised the hateful Nazi emblem (Hakenkreuz). Expressing their support for the legislation AB 2282, an interfaith coalition of religious leaders and organisations submitted a letter to California State Senate Majority Leader Bob Hertzberg. × Welcoming the move, Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said ''We're thrilled that we're one step closer to making history in California by decriminalising the Swastika with the passage of AB2282 in the Senate.'' According to HAF managing director Samir Kalra, ''We thank Assembly member Bauer-Kahan for her continued leadership on this issue, and we urge the Governor to sign this historic legislation to better protect the religious practices of Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Zoroastrians.'' Although it became synonymous with Nazism after Adolf Hitler’s rise to power and a symbol of far-right hatred in the 1930s, the swastika was originally an ancient Hindu religious symbol. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

California's State Senate passes legislation to legalise sacred symbol of swastika

Justin Trudeau accused the opposition of standing with "people who wave swastikas". Jewish lawmaker Melissa Lantsman has demanded an apology. A prominent Hindu group said Trudeau's "misrepresentation" will lead to hate crimes against Hindus. Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Freedom Convoy Protests: Trudeau "upsets" Hindus

After failing to distinguish between the Swastika and Adolf Hitler's 'Hakenkreuz,' or hooked cross, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indian-origin lawmaker Jagmeet Singh created a new dispute.&nbsp;

A prominent Hindu organisation in the United States has advised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indian-origin lawmaker Jagmeet Singh not to mix the "Swastika," an old and auspicious symbol for Hindus, with the "Hakenkreuz," a Nazi symbol of hatred from the 20th century.

"Swastikas and Confederate flags have no place in Canada," New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh tweeted amid major protests by hundreds of truck drivers over Canada's COVID-19 regulations. &nbsp;

Both Trudeau and Singh have recently made statements accusing demonstrators of "waving Swastikas."

The HinduPACT (Hindu Policy Research and Advocacy Collective) has responded by urging Trudeau and Singh not to conflate the "Swastika," an ancient and auspicious symbol for Hindus, Buddhists, and many indigenous communities around the world, with the "Hakenkreuz," a Nazi symbol of hatred from the twentieth century.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Swastika and Hakenkreuz" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cd666ecf-6fcd-4b19-ae63-7c0c8e34ed29" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_224.jpg" /> 
 
(Picture courtesy: hindupact.org)

What is the difference between Swastika and Hakenkreuz?

The word swastika is derived from the Sanskrit roots su (good) and asti (to prevail), and it has been employed in the Rig Veda's prayers, which indicate well-being, prosperity, or good fortune.

It is claimed to represent the four yugas, or cyclical seasons, the four ends or objectives of life, the four stages of existence, and the four Vedas in Hindu philosophy. In some places in India, Swastika is even a girl's name.&nbsp;

Swastika is typically made of flowers or written in red, yellow, or blue ink or paint.

As a result, it can be found in a variety of temples and religious ceremonies all over the world, as well as as a welcome sign in many South Asian households.&nbsp;

The "hakenkreuz," on the other hand, is generally recognised as a symbol of anti-Semitism, as Nazi persecution resulted in the deaths of about 11 million Jews during the Holocaust, and it represents trauma for many people today.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Freedom Convoy Protests: Trudeau "upsets" Hindus

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Watch | Gravitas: Why is the Swastika reviled by the west?

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(With inputs from agencies)

After failing to distinguish between the Swastika and Adolf Hitler's 'Hakenkreuz,' or hooked cross, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indian-origin lawmaker Jagmeet Singh created a new dispute.

After failing to distinguish between the Swastika and Adolf Hitler's 'Hakenkreuz,' or hooked cross, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indian-origin lawmaker Jagmeet Singh created a new dispute. A prominent Hindu organisation in the United States has advised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indian-origin lawmaker Jagmeet Singh not to mix the "Swastika," an old and auspicious symbol for Hindus, with the "Hakenkreuz," a Nazi symbol of hatred from the 20th century. "Swastikas and Confederate flags have no place in Canada," New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh tweeted amid major protests by hundreds of truck drivers over Canada's COVID-19 regulations. Both Trudeau and Singh have recently made statements accusing demonstrators of "waving Swastikas." The HinduPACT (Hindu Policy Research and Advocacy Collective) has responded by urging Trudeau and Singh not to conflate the "Swastika," an ancient and auspicious symbol for Hindus, Buddhists, and many indigenous communities around the world, with the "Hakenkreuz," a Nazi symbol of hatred from the twentieth century. (Picture courtesy: hindupact.org) What is the difference between Swastika and Hakenkreuz? The word swastika is derived from the Sanskrit roots su (good) and asti (to prevail), and it has been employed in the Rig Veda's prayers, which indicate well-being, prosperity, or good fortune. It is claimed to represent the four yugas, or cyclical seasons, the four ends or objectives of life, the four stages of existence, and the four Vedas in Hindu philosophy. In some places in India, Swastika is even a girl's name. Swastika is typically made of flowers or written in red, yellow, or blue ink or paint. As a result, it can be found in a variety of temples and religious ceremonies all over the world, as well as as a welcome sign in many South Asian households. The "hakenkreuz," on the other hand, is generally recognised as a symbol of anti-Semitism, as Nazi persecution resulted in the deaths of about 11 million Jews during the Holocaust, and it represents trauma for many people today. Watch | Gravitas: Freedom Convoy Protests: Trudeau "upsets" Hindus Watch | Gravitas: Why is the Swastika reviled by the west? (With inputs from agencies)

Mr. Justin Trudeau, you are wrong about the Swastika: Here are the facts

As local neo-Nazi activity grows, Australia's Victoria state is developing laws that would make it the first in the country to prohibit the public display of Nazi symbols.

The planned ban on Nazi symbols, except for educational or historical purposes, will be presented to Parliament early next year, and it looks like it will pass with support from Opposition legislators.

A Parliamentary study earlier this year recommended the ban, citing a recent increase in neo-Nazi activity in Australia's second-most populous state.&nbsp; 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/australia-police-can-now-hack-citizens-devices-collect-or-delete-their-data-410011">Australia: Police can now hack citizens' devices, collect or delete their data</a>

The proposed legislation, which is expected to be introduced in the state legislature in the first half of 2022 with bipartisan backing, will make it illegal to exhibit&nbsp;hate symbols in public places. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: How did Germany erase its Nazi history?

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The Australian Federal Police advocated a ban on extremist emblems and promotion earlier this year.

A Nazi flag was reportedly flown over a residence in north-west Victoria last year, and local authorities were unable to force it to be removed since it was technically allowed. 
 
Watch | Exhibition explores what happened to Hitler's favourite artists after WWII

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The announcement on Thursday received widespread praise from multicultural and human rights organisations across Australia.

The Executive Council of Australian Jewry's co-chief executive officer, Peter Wertheim, congratulated the Victorian government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As local neo-Nazi activity grows, Australia's Victoria state is developing laws that would make it the first in the country to prohibit the public display of Nazi symbols.

As local neo-Nazi activity grows, Australia's Victoria state is developing laws that would make it the first in the country to prohibit the public display of Nazi symbols. The planned ban on Nazi symbols, except for educational or historical purposes, will be presented to Parliament early next year, and it looks like it will pass with support from Opposition legislators. A Parliamentary study earlier this year recommended the ban, citing a recent increase in neo-Nazi activity in Australia's second-most populous state. Also read | Australia: Police can now hack citizens' devices, collect or delete their data The proposed legislation, which is expected to be introduced in the state legislature in the first half of 2022 with bipartisan backing, will make it illegal to exhibit hate symbols in public places. Watch | Gravitas: How did Germany erase its Nazi history? The Australian Federal Police advocated a ban on extremist emblems and promotion earlier this year. A Nazi flag was reportedly flown over a residence in north-west Victoria last year, and local authorities were unable to force it to be removed since it was technically allowed. Watch | Exhibition explores what happened to Hitler's favourite artists after WWII The announcement on Thursday received widespread praise from multicultural and human rights organisations across Australia. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry's co-chief executive officer, Peter Wertheim, congratulated the Victorian government. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia’s Victoria state advances ban on public display of Nazi symbols

The Swastika is an enduring symbol of well-being & good luck for millions of Indians. But it is reviled as a symbol of fascism in the west. In France, dozens of graves have been desecrated with the symbol. The act has reignited the debate on anti-Semitism. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Why is the Swastika reviled by the west?

Walmart banned a couple from entering any of its store for at least a year after they came for shopping wearing a mask with Nazi symbols in Minnesota, United States.

Police were called in on Saturday, who did not arrest the couple, but gave them no-tresspass notice.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/flipkart-buys-parent-walmarts-indian-wholesale-business-315351">Flipkart buys parent Walmart's Indian wholesale business</a>

Raphaela Mueller, who was also shopping during that time, posted a video on Facebook of the duo being confronted by others in the store.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-walmart-shooter-a-former-employee-309270">US: Walmart shooter a former employee</a>

"If you vote for (Democratic presidential candidate Joe) Biden, you’re going to be living in Nazi Germany, that’s what it’s going to be like," the woman, who was wearing the Swastika mask, said in the video.&nbsp;

Mueller, a vicar of a southwest Minnesota parish said when she felt "nauseated" and wanted to "cry" when she first noticed the couple.&nbsp;

"I was speechless and shocked. I have heard of (things like this) happening in other places but I never thought I would see something like that," she said, reported The Associated Press on Sunday.

Walmart, in a statement, said the Bentonville, Arkansas-based retailer "will not tolerate any form of discrimination or harassment in any aspect of our business."

The couple were given an alternative mask, which they refused to wear, following which they "became belligerent and were asked to leave the store by store management," the statement added.&nbsp;

Walmart banned a couple from entering any of its store for at least a year after they came for shopping wearing a mask with Nazi symbols in Minnesota, United States.

Walmart banned a couple from entering any of its store for at least a year after they came for shopping wearing a mask with Nazi symbols in Minnesota, United States. Police were called in on Saturday, who did not arrest the couple, but gave them no-tresspass notice. Also read | Flipkart buys parent Walmart's Indian wholesale business Raphaela Mueller, who was also shopping during that time, posted a video on Facebook of the duo being confronted by others in the store. Also read | US: Walmart shooter a former employee "If you vote for (Democratic presidential candidate Joe) Biden, you’re going to be living in Nazi Germany, that’s what it’s going to be like," the woman, who was wearing the Swastika mask, said in the video. Mueller, a vicar of a southwest Minnesota parish said when she felt "nauseated" and wanted to "cry" when she first noticed the couple. "I was speechless and shocked. I have heard of (things like this) happening in other places but I never thought I would see something like that," she said, reported The Associated Press on Sunday. Walmart, in a statement, said the Bentonville, Arkansas-based retailer "will not tolerate any form of discrimination or harassment in any aspect of our business." The couple were given an alternative mask, which they refused to wear, following which they "became belligerent and were asked to leave the store by store management," the statement added.

US: Walmart bans couple who came to shop wearing Nazi masks

Thai teen idol Namsai feared being booted from her band after a photo of her wearing a t-shirt with a Nazi swastika went viral, but without the uproar she says she would have remained ignorant about the offensive implications of her fashion choices.

As Europe battles, a surge in anti-Semitism, including the desecration of graves in France, Southeast Asia is wrestling with a lack of understanding about the provenance of Nazi paraphernalia that casually creeps into public spaces.

From swastika-adorned trinkets on sale at Thai markets to selfies with Hitler statues in Indonesia, Nazi symbols are easy to find -- a problem critics attribute to ignorance and a misplaced fascination with the fascist regime.

"I was shocked," the contrite singer said of the outcry. "But I felt it was my fault. I wasn't aware even though I should have known."

The 19-year-old is a member of BNK48, one of the most popular girl bands in the country, performing choreographed J-pop-style numbers to adoring crowds.&nbsp;

But Namsai, whose real name is Pitchayapa Natha, waded into controversy when she wore a red-and-black top showing a Nazi flag and swastika during a televised rehearsal last month, prompting the Israeli embassy to express "shock and dismay".

Namsai, who has more than 370,000 followers on Instagram, swiftly posted an apology for what she called "my mistake", met with Israeli diplomats, and offered a tearful onstage apology.

Now she says she may join them in conducting seminars on Holocaust education in Thai schools.&nbsp;

In the meantime, she is researching Nazi history on her own.

"It was a bad experience," she said. But it also presented an "opportunity" to learn, she added, citing a visit to the Holocaust memorial at the UN in Bangkok also attended by other band members.

Selfies and shirts

While Hitler's forces carried out atrocities in Europe, his Japanese allies led a scorched-earth campaign across Asia during World War II.

As a result, Japanese wartime actions are the more immediate prism through which many view the region's history.&nbsp;

The Holocaust is covered in high school textbooks in Thailand but it's "a small portion" of the world history sections, said Chalermchai Phanlert, an academic at the Education Ministry.

That means less emphasis on Nazis and their impact on Europe.

Derived from Sanskrit and with roots in India, the swastika is a commonly displayed motif in Hindu temples across Asia.

But Chalermchai said younger Thais do not fully understand the swastika's European context or Nazi history in general. Instead, Third Reich symbols are used to sell fashion and anti-establishment culture.

In September a love motel outside Bangkok sparked outcry after photos online showed a portrait of Hitler hanging in one of its themed rooms.&nbsp;

Red-and-white swastika badges, stamps, flags and other Nazi-themed trinkets are on sale at Bangkok's popular Chatuchak weekend market, while a vendor on tourist hub Khaosan Road hawks t-shirts of a naked Hitler enjoying a beach holiday.

Enthusiasm for Nazi iconography and portrayals of Hitler have earned rebukes in other Southeast Asian countries.

In 2017 an Indonesian museum that allowed visitors to take selfies with a wax sculpture of Hitler removed the exhibit following global condemnation.

But awareness of the offence caused is growing.

In Myanmar's biggest city Yangon shopkeeper Ko Ko Aung said he used to be part of the punk scene where clothes with swastikas were part of a spirit of rebellion.

Now he says he understands that "punk and Hitler are not connected".&nbsp;

'Nazi chic'

It is both "inaccurate and unhelpful" to draw a link between a vogue for Nazi chic and anti-Semitism, says Elliot Brennan of the Institute for Security and Development Policy in Stockholm.

"That is not to say that anti-Semitism does not exist in Asia but one could argue these are led more by anti-Israel positions than anti-Semitism," he said.&nbsp;

Thai history lecturer Tul Israngura Na Ayudhya said the fascination with Hitler has to be seen in context, adding that a lack of education is only part of the story.

Many countries in Asia have a complex relationship with strongmen generals and leaders who are sometimes wrongly applauded as nationalist modernisers.

He cited Mao Zedong, a figure whose policies cost countless lives but who has been the subject of nostalgia in some quarters of late.&nbsp;

And so Hitler is not necessarily "associated with the devil" by everyone in the region.

Tul teaches one of the few university courses devoted to Nazi Germany in Thailand at Chulalongkorn University, where his syllabus begins with Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel's memoir "Night".

One of his students, German major Thanapon Danpakdee, laments the carefree approach to Nazi symbols in Thailand, even when it is not meant to offend.

"I think they ignore the other side," he said.

Thai teen idol Namsai feared being booted from her band after a photo of her wearing a t-shirt with a Nazi swastika went viral, but without the uproar she says she would have remained ignorant about the offensive implications of her fashion choices.

Thai teen idol Namsai feared being booted from her band after a photo of her wearing a t-shirt with a Nazi swastika went viral, but without the uproar she says she would have remained ignorant about the offensive implications of her fashion choices. As Europe battles, a surge in anti-Semitism, including the desecration of graves in France, Southeast Asia is wrestling with a lack of understanding about the provenance of Nazi paraphernalia that casually creeps into public spaces. From swastika-adorned trinkets on sale at Thai markets to selfies with Hitler statues in Indonesia, Nazi symbols are easy to find -- a problem critics attribute to ignorance and a misplaced fascination with the fascist regime. "I was shocked," the contrite singer said of the outcry. "But I felt it was my fault. I wasn't aware even though I should have known." The 19-year-old is a member of BNK48, one of the most popular girl bands in the country, performing choreographed J-pop-style numbers to adoring crowds. But Namsai, whose real name is Pitchayapa Natha, waded into controversy when she wore a red-and-black top showing a Nazi flag and swastika during a televised rehearsal last month, prompting the Israeli embassy to express "shock and dismay". Namsai, who has more than 370,000 followers on Instagram, swiftly posted an apology for what she called "my mistake", met with Israeli diplomats, and offered a tearful onstage apology. Now she says she may join them in conducting seminars on Holocaust education in Thai schools. In the meantime, she is researching Nazi history on her own. "It was a bad experience," she said. But it also presented an "opportunity" to learn, she added, citing a visit to the Holocaust memorial at the UN in Bangkok also attended by other band members. Selfies and shirts While Hitler's forces carried out atrocities in Europe, his Japanese allies led a scorched-earth campaign across Asia during World War II. As a result, Japanese wartime actions are the more immediate prism through which many view the region's history. The Holocaust is covered in high school textbooks in Thailand but it's "a small portion" of the world history sections, said Chalermchai Phanlert, an academic at the Education Ministry. That means less emphasis on Nazis and their impact on Europe. Derived from Sanskrit and with roots in India, the swastika is a commonly displayed motif in Hindu temples across Asia. But Chalermchai said younger Thais do not fully understand the swastika's European context or Nazi history in general. Instead, Third Reich symbols are used to sell fashion and anti-establishment culture. In September a love motel outside Bangkok sparked outcry after photos online showed a portrait of Hitler hanging in one of its themed rooms. Red-and-white swastika badges, stamps, flags and other Nazi-themed trinkets are on sale at Bangkok's popular Chatuchak weekend market, while a vendor on tourist hub Khaosan Road hawks t-shirts of a naked Hitler enjoying a beach holiday. Enthusiasm for Nazi iconography and portrayals of Hitler have earned rebukes in other Southeast Asian countries. In 2017 an Indonesian museum that allowed visitors to take selfies with a wax sculpture of Hitler removed the exhibit following global condemnation. But awareness of the offence caused is growing. In Myanmar's biggest city Yangon shopkeeper Ko Ko Aung said he used to be part of the punk scene where clothes with swastikas were part of a spirit of rebellion. Now he says he understands that "punk and Hitler are not connected". 'Nazi chic' It is both "inaccurate and unhelpful" to draw a link between a vogue for Nazi chic and anti-Semitism, says Elliot Brennan of the Institute for Security and Development Policy in Stockholm. "That is not to say that anti-Semitism does not exist in Asia but one could argue these are led more by anti-Israel positions than anti-Semitism," he said. Thai history lecturer Tul Israngura Na Ayudhya said the fascination with Hitler has to be seen in context, adding that a lack of education is only part of the story. Many countries in Asia have a complex relationship with strongmen generals and leaders who are sometimes wrongly applauded as nationalist modernisers. He cited Mao Zedong, a figure whose policies cost countless lives but who has been the subject of nostalgia in some quarters of late. And so Hitler is not necessarily "associated with the devil" by everyone in the region. Tul teaches one of the few university courses devoted to Nazi Germany in Thailand at Chulalongkorn University, where his syllabus begins with Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel's memoir "Night". One of his students, German major Thanapon Danpakdee, laments the carefree approach to Nazi symbols in Thailand, even when it is not meant to offend. "I think they ignore the other side," he said.

Swastikas and statues: Southeast Asia's fixation with Nazi iconography

A member of Thailand's most popular all-girl band has apologised for wearing a shirt with a Nazi flag featuring a swastika after her TV appearance drew "shock and dismay" from the Israeli embassy Saturday.

Images of Hitler, swastikas and other Nazi regalia are fairly commonplace on T-shirts and memorabilia in Thailand, a phenomenon blamed on a lack of awareness about world history.

The latest faux pas was committed by Pichayapa "Namsai" Natha, one of the singers of BNK48, when she wore the red-and-black top complete with a swastika during the group's televised rehearsal on Friday.

The deputy chief of mission of the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok took to Twitter to express "shock and dismay" at the outfit, noting that Sunday is International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

"Presenting Nazi symbols by the band's singer hurt the feelings of millions around the world, whose relatives were murdered by the Nazis," said Smadar Shapira.

Following the uproar, Namsai apologised onstage during a concert on Saturday night.

"I want this to be an example for everyone, please forgive me," the 19-year-old singer said, bursting into tears.

In an extended apology posted on her official Facebook page, she later wrote: "Please give me advice so that I can grow up to be a good adult in the future".

"I cannot fix the mistake but I promise I will not let it happen again," she wrote in Thai.

On Sunday afternoon, the singer and the manager of BNK48, both dressed in sombre grey and white clothing, met with Israeli ambassador Meir Shlomo to apologise for the incident.

Diplomat Shapira tweeted photographs of the meeting, adding that the group "discussed the importance of... awareness to the Holocaust and Antisemitism".&nbsp;

The band agreed to participate in an educational workshop on the Holocaust, she said, adding that the ambassador was "pleased" and understands that Namsai's act came from a "lack of knowledge and lack of awareness".

Georg Schmidt, Germany's ambassador to Thailand, also extended an invitation to the group "to discuss the terror of the Nazi Dictatorship with us," he tweeted Sunday. &nbsp;

Nazi imagery&nbsp;

Fans of BNK48, a domestic offshoot of Japanese girl group AKB48, came to Namsai's defence.

"I'm over 40 and I don't know anything about this topic. When I saw the shirt, I didn't think it would be a problem," said fan Prasit Rudeekriengkrai.

Others blamed Thailand's education system, which does not focus much on world history.

"What do you expect? When we were in school, they teach only about Thailand and Myanmar wars," Samruay Kraspra said.

Thailand has gotten in trouble in the past for its flippant use of Hitler and Nazi-related imagery.

In 2013, Bangkok's prestigious Chulalongkorn University was forced to apologise after its students created a mural depicting Hitler during graduation celebrations.&nbsp;

A Catholic school was also left red-faced in 2011 after students dressed up in a Nazi uniform for a sports day parade.

A member of Thailand's most popular all-girl band has apologised for wearing a shirt with a Nazi flag featuring a swastika after her TV appearance drew "shock and dismay" from the Israeli embassy Saturday.

A member of Thailand's most popular all-girl band has apologised for wearing a shirt with a Nazi flag featuring a swastika after her TV appearance drew "shock and dismay" from the Israeli embassy Saturday. Images of Hitler, swastikas and other Nazi regalia are fairly commonplace on T-shirts and memorabilia in Thailand, a phenomenon blamed on a lack of awareness about world history. The latest faux pas was committed by Pichayapa "Namsai" Natha, one of the singers of BNK48, when she wore the red-and-black top complete with a swastika during the group's televised rehearsal on Friday. The deputy chief of mission of the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok took to Twitter to express "shock and dismay" at the outfit, noting that Sunday is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. "Presenting Nazi symbols by the band's singer hurt the feelings of millions around the world, whose relatives were murdered by the Nazis," said Smadar Shapira. Following the uproar, Namsai apologised onstage during a concert on Saturday night. "I want this to be an example for everyone, please forgive me," the 19-year-old singer said, bursting into tears. In an extended apology posted on her official Facebook page, she later wrote: "Please give me advice so that I can grow up to be a good adult in the future". "I cannot fix the mistake but I promise I will not let it happen again," she wrote in Thai. On Sunday afternoon, the singer and the manager of BNK48, both dressed in sombre grey and white clothing, met with Israeli ambassador Meir Shlomo to apologise for the incident. Diplomat Shapira tweeted photographs of the meeting, adding that the group "discussed the importance of... awareness to the Holocaust and Antisemitism". The band agreed to participate in an educational workshop on the Holocaust, she said, adding that the ambassador was "pleased" and understands that Namsai's act came from a "lack of knowledge and lack of awareness". Georg Schmidt, Germany's ambassador to Thailand, also extended an invitation to the group "to discuss the terror of the Nazi Dictatorship with us," he tweeted Sunday. Nazi imagery Fans of BNK48, a domestic offshoot of Japanese girl group AKB48, came to Namsai's defence. "I'm over 40 and I don't know anything about this topic. When I saw the shirt, I didn't think it would be a problem," said fan Prasit Rudeekriengkrai. Others blamed Thailand's education system, which does not focus much on world history. "What do you expect? When we were in school, they teach only about Thailand and Myanmar wars," Samruay Kraspra said. Thailand has gotten in trouble in the past for its flippant use of Hitler and Nazi-related imagery. In 2013, Bangkok's prestigious Chulalongkorn University was forced to apologise after its students created a mural depicting Hitler during graduation celebrations. A Catholic school was also left red-faced in 2011 after students dressed up in a Nazi uniform for a sports day parade.

Thai pop idol condemned for Nazi swastika T-shirt

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