Backlash Erupts After Religious Leader’s Sexist Remarks: Bollywood Stars Speak Out in Support of Women

A recent controversial statement by renowned religious storyteller Aniruddhacharya Maharaj has sparked a massive debate and public outrage across India. In his comments, Aniruddhacharya claimed that most women over the age of 25, especially those living in live-in relationships, “have been with several men”—remarks widely condemned as misogynistic and regressive.

The Controversial Remarks

Aniruddhacharya Maharaj, who is no stranger to controversy, made a sweeping generalization about women above 25, suggesting their character is questionable if they have chosen to live independently or in live-in relationships. His blatant misogyny drew immediate backlash, especially for shaming women’s personal choices in the modern era.

Bollywood Steps Up

The remarks didn’t go unnoticed by the entertainment industry. Khushboo Patani, sister of Bollywood actress Disha Patani, courageously responded on social media, lambasting Aniruddhacharya for his regressive mindset and challenging his prejudiced views on women’s autonomy. In her viral video, Khushboo pointed out the hypocrisy of targeting women for live-in relationships, questioning why men in similar relationships aren’t condemned with the same prejudice.

She made it clear that personal freedom—whether it’s living alone, in a live-in relationship, or choosing one’s own partner—should not be seen as immoral. Khushboo’s video quickly gained traction, sparking both support and criticism online.

Solidarity from the Industry

Support for Khushboo Patani came from well-known faces like Munmun Dutta, beloved as “Babita ji” from the popular sitcom Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. Munmun reposted Khushboo’s video on her Instagram story, openly criticizing Aniruddhacharya’s regressive remarks and making it clear that she stands firmly against misogyny.

The Issue of Misinformation

In the wake of this controversy, Khushboo Patani also clarified that some social media posts were falsely attributing her comments to remarks about Premlanand Maharaj, another respected figure, which she strongly denied. She emphasized her respect for Indian spiritual traditions but reaffirmed her right and duty to speak out against any form of anti-women ideology. Khushboo warned those spreading fake news that she would consider legal action if the misinformation continued.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

This incident has reignited a crucial conversation about women’s rights, personal freedom, and the persistent issue of slut-shaming in Indian society. It also shows the growing willingness of public figures and celebrities to stand up against social injustice and gender bias.

As more voices rally together for gender equality, the hope remains that such regressive mindsets will become a thing of the past, paving the way for a society where women—and men—have the freedom to make their own choices without fear of judgment or shaming.

What do you think about the statements made by Aniruddhacharya Maharaj and the powerful responses from Khushboo Patani and Munmun Dutta? Share your thoughts in the comments below.