Rahul Gandhi Faces Criticism: Sona Mohapatra Accuses Him of Sexist Remark on Aishwarya Rai
Rahul Gandhi, criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Ram Mandir ‘Pran Pratistha’ event in Ayodhya, said, “I saw Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Ambani, Adani, all the business people, but I did not see a single poor person”. However, the simple mention of former Miss World Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has sparked controversy for the Wayanad Congress MP, prompted by the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). Singer Sona Mohapatra was the latest to criticise Rahul Gandhi, expressing her displeasure with “politicians demeaning women”.
Sona Mohapatra, an ordinarily outspoken personality, used the microblogging site X to mobilise support for Aishwarya. Notably, the Bachchan daughter-in-law has yet to respond to Rahul Gandhi’s simple use of her name in a jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sona Mohapatra tweeted on Wednesday, “What’s with politicians denigrating women in their speeches to score points in a sexist environment? Dear Rahul Gandhi, I’m sure someone has demeaned your own mother (Sonia Gandhi) and sister (Priyanka Gandhi) in the past, and you should know better. Aishwarya Rai is also a superb dancer.”
In another tweet, Sona Mohapatra corrected an X user who commented, “Dancing like a courtesan is beautiful???” Thankfully, Aishwarya Rai did not attempt Odissi. Umrao Jaan talks a lot on so-called dancing. Even Vidya Balan did not dare to present Odissi as a court dance. She just assumed the role of an Odissi dancer.” Sona Mohapatra said, “‘Dancing like a courtesan’ is indeed a compliment, you foolish illiterate…” From Amrapali, Barani, Purasati, and even Umrao Jaan, the courtesans of Indian history were treasure troves, admired for their creativity, craftsmanship, and grasp of languages, poetry, and performing arts.”
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
“Dancing like a courtesan” is indeed a compliment you Foolish illiterate Putra. From Amrapali, Barani, Purasati to even Umrao Jaan, the courtesans of Indian history were treasure troves & revered for their art, artistry & command over languages & poetry, performing arts. 🧚🏿♀️🔴 https://t.co/eU88SZ1tLs
— Sona Mohapatra (@sonamohapatra) February 21, 2024
How is the BJP inciting controversy over Aishwarya Rai’s comment?
The BJP has taken it upon itself to “flag” sexism in Rahul Gandhi’s comment. Which also included Amitabh Bachchan, Ambani, and Adani. Catering to the BJP’s seamless integration of the women-centric strategy into the forthcoming 2024 Lok Sabha Elections campaign. The saffron party’s Karnataka branch chastised Karnataka Chief Minister and Congress leader Siddaramaiah for keeping “silent” over the abuse of a “fellow Kannadiga”. “Frustrated by continuous rejection from Indians, Rahul Gandhi has gone to a new low by denigrating India’s Pride Aishwarya Rai. “A fourth-generation dynast with zero achievements now resorts to slurs against Aishwarya Rai. Who has brought more glory to India than Rahul Gandhi’s entire family,” the Karnataka BJP tweeted.
“Mr Siddaramaiah, as your boss continues to insult a fellow Kannadiga. Will you uphold your professed Kannada pride and speak out against such disrespect. Or will you remain silent to safeguard your CM Chair?” The tweet continued. Also Read: Breaking News: Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma Embrace Parenthood Once Again!! Welcome Baby Boy “Akaay”
What has Rahul Gandhi said?
Rahul Gandhi had taken a shot at the Modi administration. Claiming that he spotted Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, and large business people at the Ram temple consecration in Ayodhya last month, but no poor, labourers, or farmers. “I saw Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Ambani, Adani, and all the businessmen, but I didn’t see a single poor person.” “Not a single farmer, labourer, or unemployed person was seen,” he stated. “…I did not see any farmers there. Not a single labourer or tiny merchant was spotted. However, all of the billionaires were spotted, and they were delivering lengthy statements to the media. Ambani Ji was delivering comments…”You must have seen,” the former Congress chief stated.