In a wave of turmoil following the unexpected disqualification of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the 2024 Paris Olympics, a chorus of Bollywood actors came forward to show their unwavering support for Phogat. However, amidst the praise and encouragement, MP Hema Malini’s comments have sparked significant backlash among netizens, casting a shadow over the otherwise supportive narrative.
Renowned wrestler Vinesh Phogat faced a crushing disqualification yesterday, leading to an outpouring of support from the Bollywood fraternity. Social media platforms buzzed with heartfelt messages from stars like Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor, and Farhan Akhtar, all expressing their solidarity and immense respect for Phogat’s tenacity and achievements. Nevertheless, not all reactions were in alignment.
Hema Malini, a well-known actress turned politician, stirred controversy with her comments that seemingly undermined Phogat’s struggle and efforts. Speaking to the media, Malini remarked that the incident should serve as a wake-up call for artists and women to realize the significance of “100 grams.” She further commented on her hope that Phogat would manage to shed the weight quickly, concluding with, “Lekin milega nahin abhi” (But she won’t succeed right now). This statement did not sit well with the public.
Social media erupted with strong reactions to Malini’s comments. One user sarcastically questioned, “How much does her brain weigh? Just listen to the unparalleled wisdom of Hema Malini,” while another condemned the lack of empathy, stating, “The manner in which these leaders exhibit their empty hearts is appalling! Instead of supporting Phogat, MP Hema Malini is giving a lecture on weight-maintenance. At times, her smile looks evil.” Yet another shared a broader criticism, “We as a society have evolved past the need to ask Hema Malini her opinion on anything.”
In contrast, the empathetic messages from Bollywood stars resonated with many. Alia Bhatt and Kareena Kapoor, using their platforms, showered praises upon Phogat, hailing her resilience and spirit. Farhan Akhtar, known for his advocacy on fairness and sportsmanship, also joined in the chorus, reinforcing the positive sentiments.
In other news, the entertainment industry continues to surprise and delight audiences.
. Veteran singer Suresh Wadkar announced the launch of his new radio programme, Ae Zindagi Gale Laga Le, on his birthday. This program, anticipated to debut by Diwali, promises to share beautiful melodies and intriguing stories from Wadkar’s journey in the music industry, providing fans with personal insights and cherished memories.
Meanwhile, Falguni Pathak, the beloved voice behind numerous 1990s hits, reflected on her career choices. Known for her lively stage performances during cultural festivals like Navaratri, Pathak expressed her contentment with live shows versus film playback singing. Emphasizing her laid-back nature, she fondly recalled her long-standing career that began at the age of nine, attributing her infrequent film work to the exhaustive demands of the industry.
Fans of vintage Bollywood cinema had a nostalgic treat as Varun Dhawan shared his excitement over the re-release of the 1994 classic, Raja Babu, starring his idol, Govinda. Dhawan’s post celebrated Govinda’s return to cinemas, reflecting the enduring appeal of films from that era.
Adding to the sports realm’s cross-section with cinema, actor John Abraham met with Olympic-medal-winning shooter Manu Bhaker, who recently won two bronze medals at the ongoing Paris Olympics. Abraham praised Bhaker during their interaction, expressing his pride in her achievements and sharing his admiration for her perseverance.
On a more serious note, Javed Akhtar, a veteran screenwriter, lyricist, and poet, voiced his concerns about copyright infringement in the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. Akhtar stressed the legal complexities surrounding the use of AI to mimic singers’ voices, advocating for a cautious approach and urging musicians to seek legal guidance when navigating such innovations.
In a gesture of solidarity, Telugu superstar Prabhas made headlines with his generous donation of Rs 2 crore to the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF). This contribution aims to aid rehabilitation efforts in Kerala’s Wayanad district, which was severely affected by recent landslides resulting in over 226 deaths. Prabhas joins his counterparts Chiranjeevi, Ram Charan, and Allu Arjun, who also made substantial donations, showcasing the film industry’s commitment to social responsibility.
Thus, the saga of Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification brings to light not just the solidarity of Bollywood celebrities but also the varied responses that such incidents can provoke. From praise and encouragement to controversy and social discourse, the incident underscores the multifaceted nature of public figures’ influence in contemporary issues.
