The song which became an anthem for millions of civil rights and anti-Vietnam war protesters in the 1960's and 70's is one of the world's best-known protest songs.More recently the song was used in the anti-Iraq War movement But now the iconic song which was inducted into the Grammy 'Hall of Fame' in 1999 will be used in the UK's Cooperative Group's commercials, giving way to criticism that Dylan has sold out his spirit for financial gain, reported 'Daily Mail'.

But his record label claimed that the singer has taken into account the company's adherence to ethical guidelines on environ-mental impact, fair trade and social responsibility before making the decision.

Mike Smith, UK managing director of Columbia Records, said: "It is rare for Bob Dylan to license his recordings to TV ads.The decision to do so with the Cooperative and Blowin' in the Wind shows a willingness to embrace fresh ways of reaching a new audience through an ethical and fair trade organisation."