NEW DELHI: Numerous renowned former cricketers including the legendary
Sachin Tendulkar
,
Venkatesh Prasad
and
Suresh Raina
, have condemned the 'racist' comments made against India by public figures in the Maldives. They encouraged fellow citizens to appreciate the beauty of Indian beaches.
This criticism comes in the midst of a controversy over derogatory and 'anti-India' remarks by Maldivian ministers, leaders and other public figures following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the union territory of Lakshadweep.
Raina called for unity among Indians against the hate from the Maldives and advocated exploring the islands within India. Raina expressed disappointment over the criticism from the Maldives, particularly considering India's substantial contributions to their economy, crisis management, and various other areas.
He stated now is the moment to explore the Indian Islands.
"I saw remarks from prominent public figures in the Maldives, expressing hateful and racist comments directed towards Indians. It's disheartening to witness such negativity, especially considering that India contributes significantly to their economy, crisis management and so many other aspects. Having visited the Maldives multiple times and always expressing admiration for the destination's beauty, I believe it's crucial to prioritize our self-respect," he said in a post on X.
"In light of recent events, let's unite and choose to #ExploreIndianIslands, supporting our own vibrant tourism industry. It's time to celebrate and appreciate the rich experiences that our own has to offer," Raina added.
Prasad also criticised Maldives Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment Mariyam Shiuna, who made disparaging remarks against India.
"A deputy minister using such language for our country. Maldives is a largely poor country largely dependent on upmarket tourism with over 15% tourists from India. India has very many unexplored beautiful coastal towns, and this is a great opportunity to develop many of them into tourist destinations," Prasad said.
Ex-Indian all-rounder
Irfan Pathan
wrote, "Having traveled the world since I was 15, every new country I visit reinforces my belief in the exceptional service offered by Indian hotels and tourism. While respecting each country's culture, it's disheartening to hear negative remarks about my homeland's extraordinary hospitality."
Notably, former cricketer
Aakash Chopra
took to social media to voice his opinion on the matter.
"'India Out' was a part of the manifesto. Maldives voted for it. Now, it's up to us, Indians, to choose wisely. I know that my family will. Jai Hind," Akash Chopra wrote on X.
Earlier, legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar also took to the social media platform and lauded Sindhudurg, the coastal town in Maharashtra and its beautiful coastlines and pristine islands.
"250 days since we rang in my 50th birthday in Sindhudurg! The coastal town offered everything we wanted, and more. Gorgeous locations combined with wonderful hospitality left us with a treasure trove of memories. India is blessed with beautiful coastlines and pristine islands. With our "Atithi Devo Bhava" philosophy, we have so much to explore, so many memories waiting to be created," Sachin posted on Sunday.
"Extremely sad to see what’s being said about India. With its gorgeous marine life, beautiful beaches, Lakshadweep is the perfect get away spot and surely a must visit for me for my next holiday," Hardik Pandya tweeted.
On January 2, Prime Minister Modi visited the Union Territory of Lakshadweep and posted numerous pictures, including capturing the 'thrilling experience' as he ventured into snorkelling.
In a series of posts on X, PM Modi shared pictures of the white beaches and the pristine blue skies and the ocean, and tagged them with a message that read, "For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list."
"Recently, I had the opportunity to be among the people of Lakshadweep. I am still in awe of the stunning beauty of its islands and the incredible warmth of its people. I had the opportunity to interact with people in Agatti, Bangaram and Kavaratti. I thank the people of the islands for their hospitality. Here are some glimpses, including aerial glimpses from Lakshadweep," PM Modi posted on X.
He added, "During my stay, I also tried snorkelling - what an exhilarating experience it was! For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list".
Prime Minister Modi also laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 1,150 crore in Agatti on Tuesday.
Notably, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu is considered close to China and he even ran the electoral campaign on the line of 'India Out'. After coming to power, he has taken several steps that have been unconventional from the point of India-Maldives ties.
(With ANI Inputs)
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