Harbhajan Singh Apologizes for Controversial Video

Harbhajan Singh, part of the India Champions team that recently won the World Championship of Legends, has issued an apology after a video featuring him and his teammates was criticized for allegedly mocking people with disabilities.

The Controversial Video

The controversy began when Harbhajan shared a video on social media showing himself, along with Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, and Gurkeerat Singh Mann, limping and dancing to the Bollywood song “Tauba Tauba” after their tournament win. Harbhajan captioned the video, “Body ki Tauba Tauba ho Gayi in 15 days legends cricket. Every part of the body is sore,” tagging actor Vicky Kaushal and singer Karan Aujla.

Backlash and Apology

Para-badminton star Manasi Joshi publicly criticized the video, accusing the cricketers of mocking the gait patterns of people with disabilities. “This isn’t funny. You don’t know how much harm your behavior can do,” Manasi commented. She expressed concern that such behavior could encourage bullying of children with disabilities.

Responding to the backlash, Harbhajan apologized on X, formerly known as Twitter. He wrote, “We didn’t want to hurt anyone’s sentiments. We respect every individual and community. This video was just to reflect our sore bodies after playing continuous cricket for 15 days. We are not trying to insult or offend anyone. If people think we have done something wrong, all I can say is sorry. Please let’s stop this here and move forward. Stay happy and healthy. Love to all.”

Manasi Joshi’s Criticism

Manasi Joshi, a former world no. 1 in her SL3 badminton category, expressed her disappointment, saying, “Wanted more responsibility from the stars that you all are. Please do not mock the gait patterns of people with disabilities. This isn’t legendary if you’re mocking gait patterns of people with polio. This will enable bullying of young children with disabilities in India.”

Joshi’s comments have highlighted the importance of sensitivity and awareness, especially among public figures, about the impact of their actions and words on vulnerable communities. Harbhajan’s apology aims to address the hurt caused and move towards a more inclusive and respectful discourse.