NEW DELHI:
Harbhajan Singh
clarified his stand and offered his apology after para-badminton star
Manasi Joshi
strongly voiced her ire over former India star spinner's video which hilariously showed that 15 days of cricket had taken a toll on players' bodies.
Harbhajan made it clear that there was no intention to hurt anyone and appealed to everyone to stop this and move forward.
"Just wanted to clear to our people who are complaining about our recent videos of Tauba Tauba on social media after winning the championship here in England. We didn't wanted to hurt anyone's sentiments. We respect every individual and community.
And this video was just to reflect to our bodies after playing continues cricket for 15days. SORE bodies.. we r not trying to insult or offend anyone.. still if people think we hv done something wrong.. All I can say from my side SORRY to everyone..plz let's stop this here and move forward. Stay happy and healthy. Love to all. Regards," Harbhajan posted on social media.
Following
India Champions
victory over the Pakistan Champions in the World Championship of Legends final, Harbhajan shared a video on Instagram in which he and his fellow players had put a fresh twist on
Vicky Kaushal
's popular track, 'Tauba Tauba.' But after facing severe backlash on social media, he removed the video.
Manasi strongly criticized the cricketers for ridiculing the walking patterns of individuals with disabilities. She expressed her disapproval by leaving a comment on Harbhajan's social media post.
"Wanted more responsibility from the stars that you all are, please do not mock at the gait patterns of people with disabilities. This isn't funny."
"You don't know how much harm your behaviour can do. The appreciation you're getting from people around is appalling to see. This reel of yours is going to encourage that it is ok to make fun of the walking patterns of people with disabilities for a few laughs. More young children with disabilities will be bullied by using this reel. If any of you athletes would have done responsible community service in disability space area, you all would not have come up with this reel. I'm scared how the PR agencies of these athletes approved this reel for public platform," Manasi said.
"I'm really disappointed in you @harbhajan3 @sureshraina3 and all the people who in comments section who are appropriating this reel," she added.
"This isn't legendary if you're mocking gait patterns of people with polio. This will enable bullying on young children with disabilities in India," Manasi added in another comment.
English (US) ·