‘Sindoor Is For Love, Not War’: Wedding Photographer’s Post Sparks Debate On Social Media
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Many users condemned the post, accusing the photographer of being insensitive and disrespectful to those who lost loved ones in the Pahalgam attack
The photographer, Vishal Punjabi, who goes by theweddingfilmer on Instagram, has over 258,000 followers.
A debate has started on social media over a wedding photographer’s Instagram post that sparked mixed reactions, specifically due to its caption referencing sindoor, a symbol that recently took on new meaning amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
The wedding photography company, ‘The Wedding Filmer’, which has over 258,000 followers on Instagram, shared a photo of the Hindu marriage ceremony of its owner, Vishal Punjabi. In the picture, Punjabi can be applying sindoor (vermilion) to Nikki Krishan’s hair parting. The caption reads, “Sindoor is for love. Not war.”
While the photo appeared to be a celebration of tradition and love, the caption struck a nerve with many users—especially in the wake of ‘Operation Sindoor,’ India’s military action in response to the the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22.
‘Living In Fool’s Paradise’
Many users condemned the post, accusing Punjabi of being insensitive and disrespectful to those who lost loved ones in the attack.
ALSO READ: Operation Sindoor: Critics See Red, But It’s A Fitting Codename For India’s Anti-Terror Strikes
One user expressed disappointment, implying that Vishal was siding with those across the border: “I expected better out of you!!! Where were these lines when 26 women lost their men! In that case if u are so sympathetic about someone across the border might as well go n stay there… as it is u were not an indian!”
Another user pointed out the emotional weight of sindoor in this context: “I loved the beautiful real stories you made.. however, this post of yours really compelled me to comment rather than loving this beautiful picture! C’mon sir.. think about those wives who lost their SINDOOR in front of them. I can see a few pakistani aavam admiring your post..& I’m not surprised either.”
Some comments accused Punjabi of being out of touch with reality: “You’re probably living in a fool’s paradise where idealistic things are easy to talk about. You need to understand that the love you’re talking about was brutally lost by many.”
A particularly angry comment accused him of being unpatriotic: “This is so anti-nationalist of you. Reported this to ministry of Information beaureau and police.”
‘Sane People Still Exist’
While criticism was widespread, there was also a notable group of users who praised Vishal for his courage in promoting peace during such a tense time. One supporter wrote, “Thank you for preaching peace. I’m sure you will get a lot of hate for posting this but thank you for speaking up.”
Another added, “Its very brave of you to say this. I can image the backlash you must be receiving. Let sense and peace prevail.”
Others left brief but supportive messages such as, “Thank you for SPEAKING UP!!,” another added, “Glad to see some sane people still exist! God save humanity, may every child, every soul stay safe and protected.”
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