Yuvraj, Harbhajan, Raina face criticism for allegedly mocking differently-abled in viral dance video

Harbhajan Singh. (Photo Source: Harbhajan Singh/Instagram)

A video clip featuring former Indian cricketers Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, and Gurkeerat Singh Mann has been met with strong disapproval and criticism. In the clip, the players could be seen attempting to recreate actor Vicky Kaushal’s viral dance step from the famous song, Tauba Tauba.

The former cricketers posted the video on their individual Instagram accounts following India Champions’ five-wicket victory over Pakistan Champions in the final of the maiden season of the World Championship of Legends.

In the video, Yuvraj, Harbhajan, Raina, and Gurkeerat are depicted limping and clutching their backs as they enter a doorway in a lobby, highlighting the physical strain from the matches on their bodies, as described in the caption.

However, disability advocates found the video distasteful. The National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled labeled the video as “totally disgraceful” on X.

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Totally disgraceful. No words are sufficient enough to condemn such behaviour specially when displayed by people considered national heroes. Such degrading actions only exposes their total insensitivity and boorishness.

Shame on you for mocking disability & ageing @YUVSTRONG12 @harbhajan_singh & who soever is the third joker. #NotMyIdols https://t.co/Ngz8EFBKPa

— Satendra Singh, MD (@drsitu) July 14, 2024

Arman Ali, Executive Director of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People, called upon the Board of Control for Cricket in India to acknowledge the video and unequivocally denounced the conduct and actions depicted.

“Disgusting to see India’s top cricketers mocking disability. Shameful and atrocious behaviour from those who are idolised by masses. Shame on them. I urge BCCI to take immediate note of this,” Ali was quoted by The Hindu.

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Disability rights advocate, Satendra Singh, remarked that these cricketers serve as role models for many Indians, emphasizing that Yuvraj Singh, who has confronted cancer, should have shown greater empathy.

“So many people are following them and they will follow these actions so there needs to be sensitivity. They have no remorse and are making fun of people with disabilities,” mentioned Singh.