NEW DELHI: Bihu is a popular festival celebrated in Assam that marks the beginning of the agricultural season. However, veteran Bollywood actor Hema Malini recently made a mistake and referred to it as the festival of Bihar, leading to a severe backlash from social media users.
In a tweet, Hema Malini wrote, “It is the Harvest season now. Tamizh Puthandu (New year), Baisakhi (Punjab), Bihu (Bihar) and Pohela Baisakh or Naba Barsha (Bengal) are some of the festivals celebrated. Wish you all a wonderful festival month.” This tweet did not go down well with people from Assam, who pointed out that Bihu is not a festival celebrated in Bihar.
It is the Harvest season now. Tamizh Puthandu (New year), Baisakhi (Punjab), Bihu (Bihar) and Pohela Baisakh or Naba Barsha (Bengal) are some of the festivals celebrated. Wish you all a wonderful festival month🙏 pic.twitter.com/dSabiw5ZjF
— Hema Malini (@dreamgirlhema) April 13, 2023
Following the backlash, Hema Malini corrected her mistake and tweeted, “By mistake, I have put Bihu as a festival celebrated in Bihar. I am sorry! That should read Bihu, the festival of Assam.” However, the damage had already been done, and the actor faced criticism for not being aware of the cultural diversity of India.
By mistake🙏I have put Bihu is a festival celebrated in Bihar. I am sorry! That should read Bihu, festival of Assam🙏 pic.twitter.com/WTjxEwkmPe
— Hema Malini (@dreamgirlhema) April 14, 2023
Many people on social media pointed out that this is not the first time that celebrities have made such mistakes, and it is important to respect the cultural traditions of different regions. Some even suggested that celebrities should be more cautious and sensitive while sharing their views on social media.
“You are absolutely wrong madam, Bihu belongs to Assam only, we just achieved Guinness world record today as maximum number of group dance performers in a single venue,” wrote another user.
You are absolutely wrong madam, Bihu belongs to Assam only, we just achieved Guinness world record today as maximum number of group dance performers in a single venue
— Manoj Kumar Goswami (@journalistMKG) April 13, 2023
“After coming to Assam so many times, still a politician doesn’t know which state is celebrating which festival. #Bihu is the main festival of #Assam and not Bihar,” echoed a third.
After coming to Assam so many times, still a politician doesn't know which state is celebrating which festival. #Bihu is the main festival of #Assam and not Bihar.
— juri boro (@juri_boro) April 13, 2023
The incident serves as a reminder that while social media platforms offer a powerful means to connect with people, they also require a responsible approach, especially when discussing cultural issues. Celebrities, in particular, have a significant following, and it is important for them to be mindful of the impact of their words and actions on the wider community.
