In a world where social media influencers wield significant power over public opinion, a single remark can spark widespread controversy. This reality came crashing down on Abhishek Kar, a prominent financial influencer with nearly 3 million Instagram followers, who found himself in the eye of a storm over his comments about Assam’s “tantric practices.”
The Incident
Abhishek Kar, known for his expertise in investments and startups, recently appeared on a podcast where he made remarks regarding the history and traditions of Assam. The comments, which surfaced on a YouTube channel named Riya Upreti, ignited a fierce backlash. In the clip, Kar allegedly referred to Assam’s cultural and historical practices in a way that many found disrespectful and misinformed.
The Assam Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) took swift notice of the circulating video. Sharing an image of Kar, the CMO posted a stern message: “A video from a YouTube channel, named Riya Upreti, is in circulation where an individual named Abhishek Kar is seen making unacceptable comments on Assam’s history and traditions. Appropriate action may be initiated against the said individual for spreading misinformation.”
The post triggered immediate action from GP Singh, the Director General of Police in Assam, who replied, “Noted Sir. Lawful action shall be taken.” This sequence of events left little room for Kar to evade accountability.
The Public Apology
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Abhishek Kar promptly issued a public apology. In a video response shared under the CMO’s post, he admitted to his mistake and expressed regret for his remarks. He also claimed to have requested the podcast host, Riya Upreti, to remove the contentious clip.
“I deeply regret my comments,” Kar said in the video. “It was never my intention to hurt the sentiments of the people of Assam or to disrespect their rich culture and traditions. I have reached out to the concerned parties to ensure the clip is removed.”
His apology, however, was met with mixed reactions. While some appreciated his swift acknowledgment of the mistake, others criticized him for making the remarks in the first place. The controversy has opened up discussions about cultural sensitivity, accountability, and the responsibility of influencers in shaping public narratives.
Cultural Sensitivity in the Digital Age
The incident highlights a crucial issue: the lack of cultural awareness among influencers who operate in a global, digital arena. Assam, a state with a rich cultural and historical tapestry, has long been a subject of fascination. Its traditions, including tantric practices, are rooted in centuries of history and spirituality. For many, these practices symbolize a profound connection to ancient wisdom rather than the caricatured interpretation Kar seemed to imply.
When influencers comment on such topics without adequate knowledge or sensitivity, it not only risks offending communities but also perpetuates stereotypes. Kar’s comments were a stark reminder of how easily misinformation can spread when influencers fail to respect the cultural nuances of their subjects.
The Role of Accountability
As the digital age blurs geographical boundaries, influencers hold unparalleled power to influence public opinion. With this power comes the responsibility to approach sensitive topics with care. Kar’s apology, while necessary, also raises questions about why such comments were made in the first place.
Should influencers undergo cultural sensitivity training? Should platforms enforce stricter guidelines on content related to cultural and historical matters? These questions are increasingly relevant as the internet becomes a melting pot of diverse voices and perspectives.
The Reaction in Assam
For the people of Assam, Kar’s remarks struck a deep nerve. Social media platforms were flooded with reactions from citizens, cultural organizations, and historians who condemned the comments. Many called for stricter action to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
“We are proud of our heritage and traditions,” said Rina Deka, a historian based in Guwahati. “When someone with such a massive following spreads misinformation, it not only hurts our sentiments but also damages the perception of Assam on a global platform.”
Others, however, viewed the controversy as an opportunity for constructive dialogue. “Instead of focusing solely on punishment, we should use this moment to educate influencers and the public about Assam’s rich history,” said Partha Baruah, a cultural activist.
Moving Forward
The Abhishek Kar controversy serves as a cautionary tale for influencers everywhere. It underscores the need for mindfulness and responsibility in an era where a single comment can ripple across millions. For Kar, this incident may well be a turning point—an opportunity to learn and grow as a public figure.
In his apology, Kar mentioned his desire to visit Assam and learn more about its culture firsthand. “I want to understand and appreciate the beauty of Assam’s traditions,” he said. “I hope to engage with the community and make amends.”
If Kar follows through on this promise, it could pave the way for reconciliation and mutual understanding. At the same time, it’s a reminder for all influencers to approach their platforms with humility and respect for the diversity of their audiences.
Source: NDTV