Controversy returned to the public realm when Bollywood actress Esha Gupta openly criticised Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya for previous statements made on Koffee With Karan, which aired in 2019 but continues to reverberate in public debate. The statements were widely criticised as misogynistic, tone-deaf, and symptomatic of toxic masculinity.
But Esha Gupta revived the debate with her latest comments, in which she slammed Pandya’s attitude and boldly declared that “women should not compare themselves to men,” stressing that men must also be held accountable for their outdated thinking.
The context of the scandal, Esha Gupta’s response, India’s continuing gender conversation, and the larger ramifications of celebrities addressing gender sensitivity in sports and entertainment.
The Notorious Koffee With Karan Episode
In January 2019, Hardik Pandya appeared on Koffee With Karan with fellow cricketer KL Rahul. The chat show, which was known for its gossipy, casual tone, took a turn for the worse when Pandya made many statements that were viewed as sexist and objectifying to women. Some of the more contentious statements were Pandya boasting about his sexual exploits, indicating that he loved to “observe how women move” at gatherings, and bragging about notifying his parents about losing his virginity.
The statements caused widespread outrage from both the public and cricket officials. Pandya and Rahul were barred from competing in international matches and had to offer public apologies. While the show was eventually removed from Hotstar (now Disney+ Hotstar), the harm to his reputation remained.
Esha Gupta’s Bold stance
In a recent interview at a promotional event for a women’s empowerment program, Esha Gupta was questioned about male prominent personalities and the influence of their comments on society. She didn’t mince words and took a straight attack at Hardik Pandya, declaring.
When celebrities like Hardik Pandya speak such things on public television, every woman watching feels disrespected. Men should refrain from normalising the objectification of women in informal talks. Women should not compare themselves to males, but rather expect more since we live with sensitivity and respect. This sharp comment rekindled the conversation on social media, with hashtags like #Esha Gupta and #Hardik Pandya Controversy rising once more.
Analysing Esha Gupta’s Criticism
Esha’s statements offer layered commentary. In a society where misogyny is often normalized especially in the entertainment and sports world – her stand is both necessary and timely. Gupta’s criticism repositions the conversation to reflect on how casually offensive remarks can have long-term psychological and social consequences.
Some may find this remark odd at first, but it stems from the premise that women frequently accept society’s double standards. Esha emphasises that women should not seek to be “equal” to males who support sexism, but instead hold society to higher ethical standards based on empathy, respect, and emotional intelligence.
Esha Gupta has made an essential point: superstars are more than simply entertainers or sports; they are also influential figures with a large following. What people say on publicly watched venues can influence views and cultural standards.
Pandya’s Development: A Counterpoint?
It’s appropriate to assess Hardik Pandya’s development in 2019. The cricketer has avoided controversy, celebrated parenthood, and spoken openly about maturity and humility. His supporters claim that individuals develop and that he should not be judged eternally for a single error.
While this is true, Esha Gupta’s attitude reminds us that admitting previous mistakes does not remove their societal consequences. Apologies must be accompanied with public progress and encouragement for gender-inclusive discussion.
Why Esha Gupta’s voice is important
Esha Gupta has continuously supported gender-related causes. She has discussed body shaming, sexual harassment in the workplace, and mental health. As a former Miss India and accomplished actress, her platform provides her with influence, which she uses properly.
What distinguishes her is her reluctance to accept cosmetic apologies or let time soften the memory of offences. She’s reigniting previous conflicts, not for drama, but to avoid the normalisation of poisonous behaviour.
The Conclusion
Esha Gupta’s fiery criticism of Hardik Pandya is not just a personal attack, it is a rallying cry for a more conscious and respectful culture, especially in male-dominated spaces like cricket. It challenges the idea that time heals all wounds and insists that systemic change requires constant pressure and memory.
While Pandya may have moved on, the values he once promoted in jest continue to echo. In calling that out, Esha Gupta has once again shown that accountability doesn’t expire. Her words underline a powerful truth: women don’t need to aspire to the standards of men who falter; they need to demand better, from society and from themselves.
Written by Nilesh Shiv