Munmun Dutta Slams Aniruddhacharya Maharaj Comment On Women Shared Khushboo Patani’s Video

In a time when religious leaders are expected to be voices of wisdom and social harmony, a recent statement by renowned spiritual orator Aniruddhacharya Maharaj has sparked widespread anger across India, particularly among women and youth on social media. Known for his religious discourses and spiritual teachings, Aniruddhacharya Maharaj has become the center of controversy after making derogatory and deeply misogynistic remarks about women over the age of 25, especially those in live-in relationships.

The statement, which surfaced in a video clip that quickly went viral, includes phrases such as: “Girls who are 25 years old or older, especially those living in live-in relationships, have already been with four or five men.” His repeated use of the crude phrase “muḥ maar ke aati hai” (a vulgar slang implying sexual promiscuity) further escalated public outrage, with many accusing him of shaming and vilifying women’s personal choices under the guise of religious authority.

Among the first to respond publicly was Khushboo Patani, sister of Bollywood actress Disha Patani. In a powerful and emotionally charged Instagram video, Khushboo lashed out at Aniruddhacharya Maharaj, criticizing not only his words but also the patriarchal mentality behind them. She stated, “If this man had said this in front of me, I would have taught him what the phrase ‘muḥ maarna’ really means.” Her video, laced with both righteous anger and fierce sarcasm, questioned why only women in live-in relationships are targeted with such slurs, and not the men who are equally involved.

Khushboo asked pointedly, “Why did he not say that men who live in with women have also been around? Why are only women vilified? Is living in with someone a crime now? If someone chooses to assess compatibility before marriage, what’s wrong with that?” Her remarks struck a chord with many online users who shared her sentiments, especially the younger generation that increasingly rejects outdated moral policing.

Actress Munmun Dutta, best known for her role as Babita Ji in the popular sitcom Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, extended her support to Khushboo Patani by reposting her video on Instagram. In doing so, she too condemned Aniruddhacharya’s derogatory statements, making it clear that such views have no place in a progressive society. Munmun has long been vocal about social issues and women’s rights, and her support amplified the growing call for accountability.

However, as the video gained traction and public debate intensified, Khushboo Patani began facing online trolling and misinformation campaigns. Some individuals falsely claimed she had made derogatory comments about Sant Premanand Maharaj, another respected spiritual figure. In response, Khushboo issued an official clarification via her Instagram page, stating unequivocally that her criticism was directed solely at Aniruddhacharya Maharaj and not at Premanand Maharaj or any other saint.

In her written statement, she said, “It has come to my attention that false and misleading narratives are being circulated on social media, attempting to link my comments to Premanand Maharaj Ji. Let me be clear—I have not made any statement against him. My response was solely directed at the anti-women comment made by Aniruddhacharya Maharaj.”

She went on to express her disappointment that her words were being twisted to suit divisive agendas and clarified that she holds deep respect for saints and India’s spiritual traditions. “However,” she added, “when misogynistic ideas are promoted in the name of religion, I believe it is my moral duty to speak up. I will not stay silent in the face of injustice.”

Khushboo concluded by warning those spreading false information that if the propaganda continued, she would be forced to take legal action. She appealed to the public to stop sharing fake videos and emphasized that the truth would always prevail.

This controversy highlights several critical issues that go far beyond the words of a single individual. The first and most obvious is the persistent double standards in society when it comes to judging women’s character, especially regarding their relationships and lifestyle choices. The remarks made by Aniruddhacharya Maharaj reflect a deeply ingrained patriarchal mindset that views women’s autonomy, especially sexual autonomy, as immoral or shameful. Yet, these same behaviors in men are often overlooked or normalized.

The religious stage from which Aniruddhacharya made his comments is meant to be a place of reflection, peace, and spiritual growth. Instead, it was used to humiliate women and promote regressive ideas. Many have pointed out the hypocrisy and selective morality involved in such sermons, where women are continuously judged for their choices while men escape all scrutiny.

Second, the public backlash and support for voices like Khushboo’s indicate a changing social tide in India. More and more people—especially women—are refusing to remain silent in the face of sexism. Social media has provided a platform for individuals to challenge regressive ideologies that were once protected by tradition and hierarchy.

Third, the incident brings attention to the responsibility of public figures, especially those with spiritual or religious influence. Their words carry weight and can shape public opinion. When such figures make derogatory or inflammatory remarks, it not only spreads misinformation but also reinforces harmful stereotypes that perpetuate gender inequality.

The support shown by Munmun Dutta and others also signifies the importance of solidarity among women. When public figures stand together against misogyny, it encourages others to do the same, and sends a message that bigotry—especially when disguised as “moral advice”—will not go unchecked.

While Aniruddhacharya Maharaj’s statement has certainly garnered backlash, what remains to be seen is whether there will be accountability or consequences. In past instances, controversial remarks by spiritual figures have often been brushed aside in the name of “freedom of expression” or “misinterpretation.” However, growing public awareness and activism, especially among India’s younger population, may push for greater transparency and reform.

At its core, this issue is not just about one man’s offensive words—it’s about the freedom of women to make their own choices without fear of shame, judgment, or moral policing. It’s about the need for religious and cultural spaces to evolve and reflect the values of equality, empathy, and dignity for all genders.

In a country that prides itself on being the land of spiritual wisdom and divine feminine power—where goddesses are worshipped and mothers revered—it is deeply contradictory and dangerous to allow platforms that degrade women to go unchallenged.

The fact that Khushboo Patani had to clarify that she respects saints, while simply objecting to a misogynistic comment, says a lot about the fragility of discourse in today’s digital age. It shows how easily important conversations can be hijacked by misinformation, and how crucial it is to remain focused on the real issue: gender respect and social responsibility.

For now, the debate continues online, with thousands weighing in on either side. But one thing is certain: Indian society is slowly but steadily moving toward a space where women no longer tolerate being silenced, and where regressive ideas, no matter how traditionally clothed, will be called out for what they are.

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