1. Sona Mohapatra condemns Rahul Gandhi’s comments on Aishwarya Rai, criticizing them as demeaning and politically motivated.
2. Rahul Gandhi, during the ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ in Prayagraj, specifically mentioned Bollywood icons Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, raising questions about OBC representation.
3. The remarks made by Rahul Gandhi have sparked controversy and drawn criticism from various quarters for their perceived insensitivity and political undertones.
Mumbai, Feb 22: Singer Sona Mohapatra expressed strong disapproval of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s remarks regarding actor Aishwarya Rai, labeling them as demeaning and an attempt to gain political advantage.
Rahul Gandhi’s Comments
- Criticism of OBC Representation: During the ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ in Prayagraj, Rahul Gandhi singled out Bollywood figures Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, questioning the absence of representation from Other Backward Classes (OBCs). He mentioned Aishwarya Rai’s absence from the Ram Temple consecration event, despite her husband and father-in-law’s attendance.
- BJP’s Response: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized Rahul Gandhi for his remarks, accusing him of demeaning Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and sinking to a new low in political discourse. The Karnataka BJP specifically targeted Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, questioning his silence over Rahul Gandhi’s alleged insult to a fellow Kannadiga.
Also Read: Manipur High Court Revokes Previous Directive on Meiteis’ ST Status Consideration
Sona Mohapatra’s Critique
What’s with politicians demeaning women in their speeches to get some brownie points in a sexist landscape?Dear #RahulGandhi ,sure someone has demeaned your own mother, sister similarly in the past & irrespective you ought to know better? Also, #AishwaryaRai dances beautifully.🙏🏾
— Sona Mohapatra (@sonamohapatra) February 21, 2024
- Repetitive References: Mohapatra highlighted the repetitive nature of Rahul Gandhi’s references to Aishwarya Rai, emphasizing the derogatory connotations associated with labeling her as a (ghost) ‘dancer’.
- Inadequate Justification: Responding to those who defended Rahul Gandhi by pointing out his mention of Amitabh Bachchan, Mohapatra argued that the inclusion of a respected figure like Bachchan did not justify the derogatory remarks made about Aishwarya Rai.
The controversy surrounding Rahul Gandhi’s comments on Aishwarya Rai Bachchan reflects broader debates about gender sensitivity and political rhetoric.
Mohapatra’s criticism adds to the ongoing discussion, highlighting the need for respectful discourse in public discourse.
