Controversy Erupts Over Stalin Depiction in Georgian Cathedral Icon

Activist Nata Peradze faces backlash after defacing the icon in protest, highlighting deep divisions over Stalin's legacy in Georgia.

Orthodox Church calls for changes to an icon depicting Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin hung in a cathedral in Tbilisi, stating there was 'insufficient evidence' the saint and Stalin ever met.
Activist Nata Peradze threw paint on the icon in protest, leading to an angry mob surrounding her house.
The icon was gifted to the cathedral by the Alliance of Patriots, a pro-Russian political party, and has been courting controversy since its presence was highlighted by opposition politician Giorgi Kandelaki.
Stalin, despite his brutal rule and oppression of religious clerics, is still viewed with pride by many Georgians.
The defaced icon has been cleaned and moved to a more prominent spot, and authorities have started a legal procedure over the vandalism.