Laxman Sivaramakrishnan Replies To Rajdeep Sardesai’s ‘Why Use ‘Shri Ram’ Chants To Mock Pak Players’

The much-awaited World Cup match between India and Pakistan finally happened on October 14, 2023. To say that it was quite a thrilling one would not be so wrong. The men in blue showcased their impeccable performance and the captaincy of Rohit Sharma was also lauded. For all the right reasons? Indeed for all the right reasons.

What is worth noting is that soon after the dismissal of Pakistan player Mohammad Rizwan, Indian fans started chanting “Jai Shri Ram”. To say that it has created a lot of stir would not be so wrong.

Indian fans started chanting “Jai Shri Ram” soon after the dismissal of Pakistan player Mohammad Rizwan

It is no hidden fact that India and Pakistan are one another’s greatest arch-nemesis when it comes to cricket and even otherwise. This was quite evident at the Narendra Modi Stadium when the two countries encountered one another. During their thrilling fixture, Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan was bowled by the outstanding Indian fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah.

Rizwan managed to score 49 runs off 69 deliveries, showcasing his skill with seven boundaries. However, soon after this his dismissal, Indian spectators resorted to chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’ as Mohammad Rizwan, departed the field.

This has indeed created a lot of stir on the internet. Some people criticize this act in the name of spreading hate. One such individual is renowned journalist Rajdeep Sardesai.

Rajdeep Sardesai condemned the act of chanting “Jai Shri Ram” in order to mock Pak players

In a tweet that he made on October 15th, renowned journalist Rajdeep Sardesai emphasized that ‘Jai Shri Ram’ should not be wielded as an aggressive chant to taunt Pakistani players. He further elaborated that Lord Ram represents ‘Maryada Purshottam,’ a symbol of enlightenment, and advocates for the avoidance of hatred. He wrote as we quote,

“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?”

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 Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) October 15, 2023

Interestingly, this view did not sit well with legend Laxman Sivaramakrishnan. He took to the comment section and countered it by sharing his experience.

Laxman Sivaramakrishnan took to the comment section of Rajdeep’s post and wrote…

Laxman Sivramakrishnan emphasized on the atrocities he endured as a 16-year-old boy in Pakistan. He wrote as we quote,

“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.”

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.

— Laxman Sivaramakrishnan (@LaxmanSivarama1) October 15, 2023

What are your thoughts on this controversy? Do you agree with Rajdeep or do you agree with Laxman? Do share your thoughts via the comments below.