Bollywood actress Swara Bhasker, well-known for her vocal presence on social media, recently responded sharply to a netizen who shared a picture of their vegetarian meal on the occasion of Eid al-Adha 2024. The post, which intended to promote vegetarianism, seemed to have struck a nerve with Bhasker, prompting an intense dialogue on dietary choices and their ethical implications.
The controversy began when the netizen posted an image of a plate containing rice, paneer, and vegetables, accompanied by the caption, “I’m proud to be a vegetarian. My plate is free from tears, cruelty, and guilt.” The post was an attempt to underline the virtues of a vegetarian lifestyle in contrast to the traditional practices associated with Bakrid, which often involve the sacrifice of animals such as goats and sheep.
Swara Bhasker, not one to shy away from expressing her opinions, reposted the image with a strongly worded message. She wrote, “Honestly… I don’t understand this smug self-righteousness of vegetarians. Your entire diet is made up of denying the calf its mother’s milk… forcibly impregnating cows then separating them from their babies & stealing their milk. You eat root vegetables? That kills the whole plant! Please relax with the virtue signalling just because it’s Bakr Eid!”
Her response sparked a heated debate on Twitter, highlighting the complex and often deeply personal beliefs about diet, compassion, and ethical consumption. Bhasker pointed out the hypocrisies she sees in the vegetarian lifestyle, emphasizing that no diet is entirely free from ethical and moral issues.
Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakrid, is a significant religious festival observed on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It marks the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia and is a time for Muslims worldwide to celebrate. The festival commemorates Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command, a story that underscores themes of devotion, sacrifice, and compliance with divine will.
Traditionally, the observance of Eid al-Adha includes a sacrificial offering, where Muslim families prepare for the ritual slaughter of goats or sheep. This act is symbolic of sharing blessings, as the meat from the sacrifice is divided among family, friends, and the less fortunate, embodying values of generosity and community support.
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Bhasker’s comments come at a time when conversations around dietary choices are becoming increasingly prominent. The push for plant-based diets has gained momentum, often promoted for ethical, environmental, and health reasons. However, Bhasker’s remarks urge a more nuanced discussion, questioning the inherent moral superiority some vegetarians claim.
Beyond social media skirmishes, Bhasker has been making headlines in her personal and professional life. She married Fahad Ahmad in February 2023 under the Special Marriage Act, a decision celebrated by her fans. The couple welcomed their daughter, Raabiyaa, in September 2023, bringing them joy and making notable news within her community.
Professionally, Swara Bhasker has recently wrapped up shooting for her upcoming film, ‘Mrs. Falani.’ The film is unique, as it entails eight distinct stories, with Bhasker portraying eight different characters. The film showcases a variety of dialects, regions, and attires, highlighting her acting skills and versatility. The roles represent various Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Punjab, among others. Notably, Swara went the extra mile for authenticity by getting her nose pierced for the role.
The project, produced by ‘Three Arrows’ and ‘Sita Films,’ is eagerly awaited, with fans and critics alike anticipating its release. The filmmakers plan to announce the release date soon, promising a film that offers a rich tapestry of narratives deeply rooted in India’s cultural diversity.
Swara Bhasker’s latest confrontation on social media underscores the ongoing dialogue about dietary ethics during significant cultural and religious festivities. It also highlights how platforms like Twitter are becoming arenas for discussing and debating deeply rooted societal issues. As Bhasker continues to challenge prevailing narratives, her actions ensure she remains a compelling figure both online and onscreen.
(With inputs from Agencies)
