Hitler clothing store in India asked to change name

JTA — The owners of a men’s clothing store in the Indian state of Gujarat are being urged to change the name from Hitler.

The store in Ahmedabad is named for one of the proprietor’s grandfather, whose nickname was Hitler, the Times of India reported. He reportedly was called Hitler “because of his strict nature,” according to the newspaper.

Shop owner Rajesh Shah said he would be willing to change the name if he was compensated for his expenses in registering the store’s name, purchasing signage and business cards, and advertising. Shah said he did not know about Hitler’s history, except that he was a strict man, until he started researching it on the Internet.

Jews from the local synagogue visited the store Sunday to express concern over its name, according to the Indian Express newspaper.

Jewish community members told both newspapers that they believe the owners are not as ignorant of the history of Hitler as they say they are.