Rahul Gandhi's presence at PM Modi mimicry act in Indore sparks row, Sunil Lahri upset
A comedian's impression of PM Modi at a Congress event in Indore, with Rahul Gandhi seen laughing, has triggered a political row and drawn criticism from actor Sunil Lahri
A part of an event held in the presence of Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, in Indore is currently the subject of discussion. The event, called "Chhatron Ki Goonj," was held in Indore on September 19. Speaking to students at the event, Rahul Gandhi raised questions about the central government's policies and PM Narendra Modi's foreign policy. At the same event, stand-up comedian Pulkit Mani performed an impression of PM Modi's manner of speaking and some of his public appearances.
Pulkit Mani's performance referred to PM Modi's style of speaking English, as well as his style of greeting foreign leaders that has been referred to as "hug diplomacy." A joke was also made referencing an old incident in which the PM had offered his chair to an elderly woman.
Rahul Gandhi was present on stage during the mimicry act, and in the video he is seen laughing at the performance. The video of the event spread rapidly on social media, after which BJP leaders targeted Rahul Gandhi and the Congress. On the other hand, the Congress defended the performance, saying it was simply part of the comedy and mimicry act. The presentation at the event has thus sparked a political controversy.
Actor Sunil Lahri, who played Lakshman in the "Ramayan" TV serial, has also reacted to the matter. Sharing the video, he expressed anger over PM Modi being mimicked in the presence of Rahul Gandhi. In his post, Sunil Lahri wrote that it would not be appropriate to ever hand the country's leadership to a leader who mocks the country's culture, mother tongue and the practice of embracing others.
Sunil Lahri also questioned the criticism faced by the PM for delivering speeches in his mother tongue, as well as the jokes made about Indian culture and traditions. He said that respect for any leader's position and the country's cultural values should be maintained. He also said that English is just one language, and that leaders of several countries deliver speeches in their own mother tongue. He further questioned the mocking of an occasion such as offering a chair to an elderly woman, and appealed for the entire matter to be taken seriously.
Political leaders, artists and social media users are currently reacting differently to the issue. The controversy, linked to political satire and respect for those holding public office, remains a major topic of discussion.