Right after Abdul Razzaq's vulgar analogy involving Aishwarya Rai surfaced, another old video surfaced too. This one had Ramiz Raja, the former Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman, inappropriately laughing at a racist comment targeting her parents, cricket legend Vivian Richards and veteran actor Neena Gupta.
Their daughter, Masaba Gupta, on Wednesday, November 15 took to X (formerly Twitter) to strongly criticize former Raja for his inappropriate laughter at a racist comment.
The clip
The hit-back surrounds a two-month-old clip where Rameez Raja can be seen laughing at a racist joke made on a Pakistani TV news channel.
The comedian on the show made derogatory remarks about Vivian Richards, insensitively commenting on his relationship with Neena Gupta.
The incident occurred during the Asia Cup 2023 broadcast on September 12.
As a result, the celebrity designer and actor lashed out against Raja's lack of grace.
The incident has ignited a social media backlash, with netizens expressing their displeasure at Rameez Raja's behaviour.
The video resurfacing, adds to a growing list of instances where Pakistani public figures face backlash for promoting or participating in offensive content.
Masaba's response
In the tweet (X post), Masaba expressed her disappointment, stating,
"Dear Ramiz Raja (sir) grace is a quality few have. My father, mother and I have it in spades. You have none. Sickening to see you laugh on national TV in Pakistan at something the world stopped laughing at about 30 years back. Step into the future. All 3 of us are here with our chin up. #ramizraja."
Masaba further added to her stance on an Instagram story, saying, "It's nearly 2024 - no matter who you are, I will call you out on racism and shaming my mother on television. Won't have it. That is still my fight."
Masaba's Instagram story. Photo: masabagupta on Instagram
Masaba's family
Neena Gupta and Vivian Richards, despite living separately, have maintained a strong bond with their daughter.
In 2023, Masaba tied the knot with Satyadeep Misra, and both her fathers were present at the wedding.
Sharing a family picture, Masaba captioned, "For the first time ever - My whole life came together. This is us. My beautiful blended family. Everything from here on is just bonus."
Masaba's reaction is not only a personal response but also a call for a more inclusive and respectful society. As she rightfully asserts, "It's nearly 2024 - no matter who you are, I will call you out on racism."