Indian Olympian Manu Bhaker addresses social media abuse
Olympian’s Message on Language and Personality
Manu Bhaker, a double Olympic medallist, has called upon young people to avoid using abusive language, stating that such language is not “cool” and that an individual’s choice of words reflects their personality. The 23-year-old shooter, who secured two medals at the Paris Olympics, shared a detailed message on social media platform X on Sunday. While she did not refer to a specific event, her comments highlighted the increasing prevalence of abusive language in daily conversations.
Bhaker emphasised the importance of choosing words carefully, noting that language plays a role in shaping a person’s character over time. She stated, “The language we choose reflects our personality and the kind of person we are. Choose your words wisely, because over time, you become what you think, what you speak, and what you practice.” She further reiterated, “Using bad language is not cool. Abusing is not cool.”
The Olympian clarified that the definition of being “cool” has no connection to abusive language. She suggested that being cool involves being hardworking, kind, and respectful towards both others and oneself. Bhaker also mentioned striving for success through honesty and making one’s parents and country proud as elements of being cool. “That’s cool,” the Indian shooter affirmed.
Normalisation of Abusive Language
Bhaker later elaborated on her decision to address this issue, explaining that abusive language has gradually become normalised, particularly among younger generations. She observed a shift in how abusive language is perceived over recent years. “For many, using such words has become so normal that it’s even considered ‘cool’. Without realising it, people casually use degrading and disrespectful language in everyday conversations,” Bhaker noted.
Her remarks underscore a concern about the casual adoption of disrespectful language in everyday interactions. The athlete’s public statement aims to encourage a more thoughtful approach to communication, especially given the influence of social media.
Spreading Positivity and Kindness
In a separate message, the two-time Olympic medal-winning shooter urged people to foster love rather than hate. Bhaker also encouraged social media influencers to act more responsibly, advocating for the reduction of negativity and the promotion of positivity. She often provides glimpses into her life through her Instagram account, which has 1.4 million followers.
Her recent social media content adopted a more serious tone, conveying a deeper message about the casual use of social media, particularly by influencers. Bhaker highlighted the unpredictable nature of life and urged individuals to be kind to one another. She pointed out that everyone, including the younger generation, has access to social media and learns from it, making it crucial to provide positive influences.
Bhaker acknowledged that while some influencers are doing good work, others are overly critical and make negative comments. She questioned the necessity of such negativity, stating, “No one has succeeded in life by trying to pull others down.” She further explained that negative comments can significantly impact an individual, either positively or negatively. From a personal perspective, she finds it rewarding when people offer support during both good and challenging times. Bhaker concluded by advising people to cherish their lives and the individuals around them.
Bhaker made history at the Paris Olympics 2024 by becoming the first Indian athlete in the post-Independence era to win two medals at a single Olympic Games. She secured a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event and another bronze in the 10m air pistol mixed team event. She also recently won a bronze medal in the 25m pistol event at the ISSF World Cup in Hangzhou, China.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
