Posted on November 3, 2024 at 10:37 am

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Rajpal Yadav, Virat Kohli, and Vidya Balan—why Andhbhakts attack celebs who speak out for change

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Actor Rajpal Yadav recently issued an apology on social media for his earlier Diwali message and if it offended anyone.

Photo courtesy Rajpal team
Photo courtesy Rajpal team

In the now-deleted video, Rajpal had gently and humorously advised his fans to celebrate Diwali responsibly by avoiding crackers, emphasizing safety and the environment.

Despite his lighthearted tone, the message drew a severe backlash, primarily from a group of followers, often called “andhbhakts”. A term describing people who rigidly follow certain beliefs.

These intense responses did not end with his apology. The hate comments have continued, showing an unwillingness to forgive or move on. This incident raises concerns about the impact of online criticism, especially when rooted in extreme interpretations of religion or culture.

Rajpal’s message was not intended to offend or target any group but rather to promote a peaceful Diwali.

Yet, it led to an onslaught of criticism from individuals who chose to see it as a personal attack on religious practices.

Such backlash isn’t new. Celebrities like Virat Kohli and Vidya Balan have faced similar hostility after speaking on matters of safety or social responsibility.

These reactions create a challenging environment for public figures, who are increasingly cautious about sharing their views.

A well-meaning message can quickly become the target of online attacks, making it difficult for celebrities to openly share positive messages or concerns without facing backlash.

This trend raises broader questions about the state of online spaces, where extreme reactions can overshadow messages of goodwill.

Rajpal’s experience shows the challenges celebrities face, reminding us of the importance of tolerance, open-mindedness, and the ability to engage in respectful dialogue.