Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor has come under heavy criticism on social media after posting a tribute to the Indian armed forces for their successful execution of Operation Sindoor nearly a week after the event. The veteran actor, known for his enthusiastic social media presence and patriotic roles on screen, found himself trolled by netizens who questioned the delay in his acknowledgment of a significant national security operation.

Operation Sindoor, carried out by the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir, involved a highly coordinated rescue and counter-terrorism mission that safely freed hostages and neutralized multiple threats posed by militants. The operation was widely covered in the media and drew immediate reactions from citizens, celebrities, and politicians alike, all of whom praised the bravery and precision of the Indian armed forces.

Anil Kapoor took to X (formerly Twitter) days after the operation’s success and wrote: "Saluting the courage and dedication of our brave soldiers for the success of Operation Sindoor. Your sacrifice keeps us safe and makes the nation proud. Jai Hind!" While the message was patriotic and appreciative in tone, it triggered a flood of criticism over the timing of the post.

Social media users were quick to call out the actor for what they saw as a performative gesture rather than a genuine expression of respect. Many pointed out that celebrities like Akshay Kumar and Kangana Ranaut had already paid their tributes within hours of the news breaking, while Kapoor remained silent until public attention had moved on. Critics accused him of being opportunistic, engaging only when the moment had already passed.

Some users even posted sarcastic comments like, “Better late than never, Mr. India!” while others shared memes mocking the delay. One popular meme featured Kapoor’s character from the film Nayak with the caption, “Aaj ka naye zamane ka Nayak, ek hafte baad post karta hai.” Others labeled him as a "last-bencher in patriotism," while some questioned whether he was even aware of the event when it occurred.

Despite the mockery, a section of the internet defended Kapoor, noting that public figures often take time to verify facts or choose to express their views in a measured manner rather than immediately reacting. Supporters argued that expressing appreciation, even after a few days, still carried value, and that criticism for timing alone was unwarranted.

However, the majority sentiment remained skeptical. Some even suggested that Kapoor may have posted only after observing that most celebrities had done the same. The criticism touched on a broader concern that many social media users harbor — that celebrities use patriotic sentiments only for visibility or to avoid backlash, rather than out of sincere conviction.

Anil Kapoor, known for his energetic roles and timeless screen presence, especially in films involving political and patriotic themes like Pukar and Nayak, has not yet responded to the backlash. Neither his representatives nor his social media team have issued a clarification.

The trolling incident highlights the increasing scrutiny that public figures face in the digital age, especially when it comes to national issues. The expectation is not only that they respond, but that they do so promptly and sincerely. For celebrities, the line between personal expression and public responsibility is becoming more blurred, with the timing of their messages often judged as harshly as their content.

While the storm may pass quickly, the criticism of Kapoor’s delayed comment on Operation Sindoor underscores how the immediacy of digital media has reshaped public discourse — especially around patriotism and civic responsibility in India’s ever-watchful online space.