• By Manik Sharma
  • Sun, 15 Oct 2023 07:53 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Former Indian cricketer Laxman Sivaramakrishnan criticised journalist Rajdeep Sardesai for belittling the 'Jai Shri Ram' chants during the 2023 ODI World Cup match between India and Pakistan.

Sardesai had questioned the use of the chant as an aggressive mockery against Pakistani players. He elaborated by emphasising Lord Ram's role as Maryada Purshottam, a symbol of enlightenment rather than one that fosters hostility.

"Afternoon musing: in our park in the morning, we often say ‘Ram Ram’ as an affectionate greeting to each other. Why then use Jai Shri Ram as an aggressive chant to mock Pakistani players? Lord Ram is Maryada Purshottam: he must bring enlightenment, not evoke enmity. Agree?🙏," Rajdeep posted.

ALSO READ: ODI World Cup 2023: Team India Arrives In Pune Ahead Of Upcoming Clash Against Bangladesh

In response, Sivaramakrishnan recounted the abuses he faced as a 16-year-old in Pakistan and urged those without similar experiences to refrain from commenting on it.

"What abuses I have got as a 16 year old in Pakistan, only I know. From my colour to my religion to my country and culture. For Heaven’s sake if you have not experienced it, please don’t talk about it," Sivaramakrishnan said.

“You can say whatever makes you happy,” he later added.

Following India's resounding victory over arch-rivals Pakistan, a video emerged of Indian fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium enthusiastically chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' as Pakistani wicket keeper Muhammad Rizwan made his way back to the pavilion after being bowled by Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah.

ALSO READ: Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023: Check Full Schedule, Timings, Venues, Live Streaming Details | All You Need To Know

It is important to mention that Rizwan had previously sparked controversy with a tweet where he dedicated Pakistan's win over Sri Lanka to the residents of Gaza, following the Hamas terror attacks in Israel.

"This was for our brothers and sisters in Gaza. 🤲🏼 Happy to contribute in the win..," the Pakistan wicket-keeper had posted on X.

Rizwan, who scored a century in the match against Sri Lanka, faced criticism for bringing politics into the game. Many social media users, using the platform X, expressed their disapproval of the Pakistani cricketer's use of the World Cup to promote his political and religious beliefs.