“Shark Tank” fame judge Namita Thapar is in the news these days. Her recent statement has landed her in trouble. She has been heavily trolled after explaining the benefits of namaz, following which she has issued a tearful clarification. She has broken her silence on the online trolling, criticism, and abuse she has faced by sharing a video on social media. Namita, the executive director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, has released a new video, giving a befitting reply to the trolls, clarifying that as a healthcare professional, her intention was only to share scientific aspects.
Namita hits back at trolling and hate speech
Namita Thapar shared a video on Instagram, stating that she and her mother have been receiving abusive language for the past three weeks. She expressed her grief and said that she was being abused simply for making a video on the health benefits of namaz. Namita questioned why no one says anything when she makes videos on Hindu traditions, Yoga Day postures, and especially the health benefits of Surya Namaskar. She clarified that as a healthcare professional, she has been discussing the scientific benefits of various traditions.
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Raised the issue of women’s safety
In her video, Namita explained that R for Religion stands for R for Respect. She criticized society’s double standards, asking why everyone remains silent when such abusive language is used against women. Citing the example of the Women’s Reservation Bill, she said, “Everyone speaks out on that, but why is there silence when a woman is insulted?” Namita emphasized that she learned long ago that no one else will stand up for you; you must speak up for yourself.
What did Namita say about being a Hindu?
Warning the trolls, Namita said they can continue their work, but they should remember that the principle of karma is paramount in Hinduism. She described herself as a proud Hindu and said that God is watching everything. She appealed to educated and intelligent Hindus to make this clarification video viral, just as her previous videos went viral for the wrong reasons, so that the truth can reach people. She recorded this video while traveling at 7 am to send the message that silence is not a virtue.
Why was there an uproar over the Namaz video?
The controversy stemmed from an old video of Namita in which she spoke about the physical benefits of namaz. She described it as a great exercise for the whole body, improving flexibility and good for joint and knee health. She also said that the Vajrasana (sacred pose) performed during namaz aids digestion and its meditative posture provides mental peace. However, a section of social media viewed this through a religious lens and began harshly criticizing the entrepreneur. Namita concluded her speech with Jai Hind, describing it as a demand of humanity and patriotism.
