Hema Malini’s comments have sparked significant backlash on social media, with many pointing out that her words seem to trivialize the considerable challenges faced by top-level athletes.
Indian wrestler, Vinesh Phogathas been disqualified from the 2024 Paris Olympics for exceeding the permissible weight limit by slightly over 150 grams. This particular verdict has sparked a surge of support for Phogat, yet simultaneously fuelled controversy, predominantly due to the comments made by BJP MP and film veteran, Hema Malini.
Hema Malini on Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification
Talking to PTI, Hema Malini standing outside the Parliament said, “See how important it is to maintain our weight. It serves as an important lesson to all athletes and women that even 100 grams matters a lot. We feel very sad for her, I hope she loses that 100 grams quickly. Lekin milega nahi abhi (but she won’t get anything now).”
Many people on social media have harshly criticized Malini’s statements for appearing uncaring and underestimating the challenges faced by outstanding athletes. Her detractors argue that her words downplay the intense dedication and effort required to perform in the higher ranks of professional sports.
Take a look at the video:
🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️ pic.twitter.com/vAYGRDZ4I8
— Narundar (@NarundarM) August 7, 2024
Netizens Furious at Hema Malini’s Comment
The comments of the veteran actor made multiple rounds on social media where netizens took the sides of Vinesh. An X. Twitter comment read, “So empty hearted 💔
How these people became even leaders.” The second comment read, “I don’t do political comments but look her smiling face and the words 🤐 Jab desh ke log hi har se khus ho to fir Jeet ke bhi kya fayda.” The third comment read, “She is laughing at the agony of a worthy champion.” Another user commented, “There is no need to write SATIRE in this country!”
Take a look at a few posts:
“Vinesh Phogat will get nothing now.” – BJP MP Hema Malini pic.twitter.com/flepLqpSYw
— Aksh Arya (@AkshAryaa) August 7, 2024
BJP MP Hema Malini mocking Vinesh Phogat for her disqualification in Olympics final.#vineshphogat
— phews (@phcubes) August 7, 2024
Why on earth do we expect hema malini to say something insightful and helpful?
Demand accountability from IOA and her team. Not a celebrity!
— Shay 🌻💙🐾 (@Shayoneespeaks) August 7, 2024
To the extent that these leaders can exhibit their empty hearts. Instead of supporting MP Hema Malini giving a lecture on weight maintenance. 💔
At times, such a smile on face looks Evil. #Phogat_Vinesh pic.twitter.com/X52fy6Btqr— RAHUL (@RahulSeeker) August 7, 2024
Her story is a beacon of unwavering resolve, a testament to the spirit of athletes who continue striving for success against all odds. Given the support from her fans and other Bollywood celebs there’s a sense of hope that Phogat will overcome this hurdle and continue to serve as an inspiration with her remarkable life story.