Indian tennis legend Sania Mirza faces backlash across Pakistani social media after she was perceived to support war rhetoric during a sensitive time of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Her recent social media activity, which aligned her with several Indian celebrities praising the military’s aggressive actions, sparked outrage—particularly from her once-loyal Pakistani followers.
Despite her deeply rooted connection to Pakistan—being the ex-wife of cricketer Shoaib Malik and mother to Izhaan Mirza Malik, a child with Pakistani heritage—her stance has left many questioning her empathy and political neutrality.
Social Media Backlash: “How Can a Mother Endorse War?”
The online reaction was swift and emotionally charged. Pakistani users expressed disappointment and anger, accusing Sania Mirza of celebrating violence and showing disregard for civilian lives. One viral comment read, “You are a mother yourself and you’re celebrating a child’s death.” Others compared her support for India’s military actions to other controversial global stances, with statements like “This is how Israel celebrates the deaths of innocent children.”
For many Pakistanis, who had admired her for her career and personal strength—especially during her high-profile separation from Shoaib Malik—this moment felt like betrayal. “We always admired you as a woman and a feminist,” wrote one user, “but this is not how you support a war on innocent people.”
The Context: Rising Tensions and the Pahalgam Incident
The uproar stems from recent attacks in the Pahalgam region of Indian-administered Kashmir, for which India has subtly pointed fingers at Pakistan. However, no concrete evidence has confirmed Pakistani involvement. Amid this sensitive situation, many Indian celebrities took to social media to laud the Indian military’s retaliatory actions.
Sania Mirza’s public support for these narratives was seen as aligning herself with nationalism at the cost of regional peace. For many Pakistanis, this was particularly painful, given her personal ties to the country.
From Admiration to Disappointment: A Fractured Relationship
Sania has long enjoyed a warm reception in Pakistan. During her marriage to Shoaib Malik, she was seen as a cultural bridge between two rival nations. Her poise and sportsmanship earned her widespread respect.
However, this recent development may mark a turning point. Many now view her actions as politically insensitive and out of step with the role she once played as a symbol of cross-border unity.
With India and Pakistan already standing on fragile diplomatic ground, celebrities like Sania Mirza wield influence—whether intentionally or not. And when such influence is seen as fueling conflict, public sentiment can shift rapidly.
The Responsibility of Public Figures in Times of Crisis
In times of geopolitical tension, the role of public figures becomes critical. Words can heal or divide. For a celebrity like Sania Mirza, who holds sway across two nations with a complex history, neutrality or empathy could serve as a bridge for peace. Instead, her perceived celebration of militaristic responses has amplified public distrust.
This incident is a reminder of the responsibility public figures carry when navigating complex political landscapes—especially when they hold personal ties on both sides.