Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals and a well-known face from Shark Tank India, has spoken out against online trolling following controversy over her remarks on the health benefits of Namaz.
In a video message shared on April 20, she addressed the criticism and emphasised the need to speak up against disrespect and harassment, especially when it targets individuals and their families.
Controversy Originated from Wellness Perspective
The backlash began after Thapar shared a social media video discussing Namaz from a health and wellness standpoint. She described the prayer as a practice that can support flexibility, joint health, and mental well-being due to its structured physical movements and meditative aspects.
She clarified that her comments were purely based on her professional perspective in healthcare and were not intended to promote any specific religion.
Calls Out Selective Outrage and Double Standards
Addressing the criticism, Thapar questioned what she described as “selective outrage.” She noted that she has previously spoken about practices such as yoga and Surya Namaskar without facing similar reactions.
Her remarks highlighted the importance of consistency in public discourse and encouraged broader acceptance of diverse cultural and spiritual practices.
Emphasis on Respect and Social Responsibility
In her message, Thapar stressed that respect should be at the core of all religious and social interactions. She stated that the “R” in religion should stand for respect, particularly in the context of online conversations.
She also urged people to speak up against harmful behaviour, adding that silence in the face of disrespect is not always the right approach.
Online Abuse and Personal Impact
Thapar revealed that she has faced sustained trolling for nearly three weeks, including derogatory comments and personal attacks involving her family members. She described the experience as deeply distressing and highlighted the broader issue of online toxicity.
Despite the criticism, she reiterated her commitment to promoting health awareness and inclusive thinking.
