Jai Shri Ram controversy : You won’t believe what Sivaramakrishnan had to say to Rajdeep Sardesai

Laxman Sivaramakrishnan, the ex-Indian leg spinner, recently exploded on X, the social media sensation previously recognized as Twitter. Why? To challenge none other than Rajdeep Sardesai amidst the roaring debate on the ‘Jai Shri Ram’ chants that echoed during the electrifying Indo-Pak World Cup face-off in Ahmedabad.

The Controversy

Rajdeep Sardesai, never far from a fiery dispute, triggered uproar when he advised against using the sacred ‘Jai Shri Ram’ in what he described as an ‘aggressive chant’ targeted at Pakistani cricketers. Invoking the mighty image of Lord Ram, Sardesai declared that the deity represents enlightenment and peace, not hostility.

The Retort

But Sivaramakrishnan? He was having none of it. Recalling the intense abuse he faced as a young 16-year-old in Pakistan, from racial taunts to jibes at his religion and culture, the former cricketer fiercely hit back at Rajdeep Sardesai. His passionate tweet exclaimed, “Only I know the abuse I endured in Pakistan. Don’t talk if you haven’t experienced it!”

The Underlying Tension

This isn’t just about chants. It’s evident that Sardesai’s tweet aims to align with a broader narrative. A narrative driven by leftwing ideologues attempting to paint the ‘Jai Shri Ram’ slogans as tools of anti-Hindu sentiment. A blatant attempt to frame Pakistan as an undeserving victim of India’s “aggression” – a tactic often wielded against the Narendra Modi-led government. Yet, it’s critical to note: ‘Jai Shri Ram’ stands as a triumphant declaration, glorifying Lord Ram and holding no ill will towards other faiths.

Remember

It’s not a secret that Pakistani cricketers like Imran Khan and Waqar Younis have often worn their religious biases on their sleeves, making their contempt for non-Muslims apparent. Despite this, figures like Rajdeep Sardesai demand that Indians stay passive, taking these remarks lying down.

The Narendra Modi Stadium’s Thunderous Chants!

Adding spice to the ongoing drama, a video took the internet by storm! Capturing the moment, Muhammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s wicketkeeper, trudged back to the pavilion post his dismissal by India’s star bowler, Jasprit Bumrah. And what filled the air? A resounding chorus of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ from the Indian audience.

Muhammad Rizwan in the Eye of the Storm

Rizwan, known for stirring the pot, had previously tweeted his Sri Lanka match victory dedication to Gaza residents. This tweet, following the tragic events in which Hamas attacks resulted in over 1,300 Israeli casualties, didn’t sit well with many. A flurry of netizens stormed X, the platform formerly identified as Twitter, lambasting the cricketer for infusing the game with politics.

Rizwan’s Tendency to Blur Line

Notoriously, Rizwan doesn’t shy away from blending politics, religion, and sport. One notable instance saw him offering Namaz on-field during a Netherlands match, a move that drew widespread criticism, especially from the Indian camp.

With chants, tweets, and passionate retorts, it’s clear the game’s drama isn’t confined to just the cricket field!