TV star Arjun Bijlani’s wife, Neha Swami, has sparked controversy after a recent event appearance. Issuing an official statement, she clarified her stance and apologized for the unintentional incident.
The controversy stems from Neha attending a party with Arjun and their son, Ayaan. Neha arrived wearing a cozy T-shirt featuring Mickey Mouse with sacred Islamic text (including Allah, Rasool, and Muhammad) written on the character’s ear, which drew attention and sparked online backlash.
Social media users quickly pointed out that the Urdu text on her T-shirt claimed that it was sacred Islamic terminology, specifically referring to Allah, Rasool, and Prophet Muhammad. What particularly triggered people was the placement of sacred religious names on a cartoon-themed T-shirt, which deeply hurt the religious sentiments of the community, prompting widespread criticism, callouts from public figures like Pakistani host Mishi Khan, and demands for an apology online.
Neha’s team issued an official statement clarifying the misunderstanding. She said she was unaware of what the Urdu words meant and that she had no intention to cause hurt, as she believes in all religions and treats everyone the same.
In response to the massive outrage, Neha’s team has shared a formal statement clarifying the misunderstanding, saying, “We would like to address the ongoing situation concerning Neha Swami Bijlani and the T-shirt she was recently spotted wearing, which featured words in Urdu referring to the Prophet.”
Sharing the truth behind the incident, the statement says, “Neha was completely unaware of the meaning and significance of the writing on the T-shirt when she wore it. There was absolutely no intention to hurt, disrespect, or offend the religious sentiments of any individual or community. We sincerely respect all religions, faiths and beliefs, and would never knowingly do anything to hurt the sentiments of others.”
Acknowledging the public’s right to feel strongly about matters of faith, the statement strongly condemned the subsequent wave of aggressive online bullying, saying, “While we understand that people may have strong feelings about matters of religious significance, the trolling, abusive language, curses and threats directed at Neha are deeply distressing and unacceptable. A situation arising from a lack of awareness should not become a reason to subject an individual to online harassment or threats.”
The statement further detailed the origin of the garment and their intentions shared: “It was a T-shirt gifted by a fan in Bangkok at a mall, and we didn’t know the meaning of what was written; we celebrate all festivals, and we will never hurt anyone’s sentiments in any way. We are sorry for what happened unintentionally and we will always be careful in future with regards to the gifts received.”
Requesting a humble approach in the matter, the statement reads, “We request everyone to approach this matter with understanding, sensitivity and compassion, and to refrain from spreading hate or targeting Neha and her family. We believe that mutual respect and dialogue are far more constructive than abuse and intimidation.”
Lastly, Neha’s team said: “We hope this clarification helps put the matter into perspective and request everyone to allow the situation to be addressed with dignity and understanding.