Cricketer Harbhajan Singh has issued an apology and deleted his post related to the viral “Tauba Tauba” song trend after facing widespread criticism. His apology came shortly after para-badminton star Manasi Joshi criticized Singh, along with fellow cricketers Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh, for allegedly mocking the gait of people suffering from polio.
“We didn’t want 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 15 days. Sore bodies.. We are not trying to insult or offend anyone. Still if people think we have done something wrong…all I can say from my side is sorry to everyone. Please let’s stop this here and move forward,,” Harbhajan stated on social media.
However, their movements appeared to imitate those of people with disabilities, leading to criticism. Manasi Joshi called for the trio to act more responsibly and avoid mocking individuals with disabilities.
“This isn’t legendary if you’re mocking the gait patterns of people with polio. This will enable bullying of young children with disabilities in India. You don’t know how much harm your behaviour can do. The appreciation you’re getting from people around is appalling to see,” she had written in the comment section. “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 the disability space area, you all would not have come up with this reel,” Manasi lamented.
