Anand Mahindra, typically known for his social media savvy, faced backlash after posting a video on X showing people performing garba in flood-affected Gujarat. The region had recently witnessed severe rainfall, leading to the tragic deaths of at least 47 people.
While the video intended to show a resilient spirit, it sparked criticism from users. Many found it inappropriate to share lighthearted content when India’s infrastructure is under scrutiny, particularly with recent complaints of cars being damaged by heavy rain, electrocution incidents on waterlogged streets, and major traffic disruptions in areas like Gujarat.
As social media has been inundated with appeals for help and assistance amid these challenges, Mahindra’s positive portrayal of the situation was not well-received. One user commented, “This is how billionaires make Indians feel they are one of them: Romanticize crippled infrastructure.” Another wrote, “This shows the country is not developing,” while others expressed frustration over the normalization of subpar conditions.
Gujarat aur Garba
Ek gazab ka rishta…
Unstoppable pic.twitter.com/woqa6rcPvx
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) August 31, 2024
Despite the backlash, some praised the video for showing resilience in the face of adversity. However, others pointed out the dangers of dancing in waterlogged streets, citing the risks of electrocution. A user warned, “This is actually plain stupidity. Multiple deaths have occurred due to electrocution during the floods, and people need to exercise caution.”
Mahindra’s post thus stirred mixed reactions, highlighting the balance between celebrating resilience and addressing real dangers in times of crisis.