Israel's recent attack on Rafah has apparently stirred the conscience of several celebs, especially those from the Hindi film industry. While no major male superstar has posted on social media in solidarity with the victims, several A-list actresses have done so. Among them are 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' and 'RRR' actress Alia Bhatt and Kareena Kapoor. Sonam Kapoor, Swara Baskar, Gauahar Khan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Hina Khan also shared posts.
"All children deserve love. All children deserve safety. All children deserve peace. All children deserve life. And all mothers deserve to be able to give their children those things," Alia Bhatt wrote in her post. From the south, Hansika Motwani is one of the celebs who has made an 'All eyes on Rafah' post.
The reaction by Bollywood celebs has triggered a political debate on social media, with several Hindutva Netizens arguing that film celebrities have once again exposed their selective amnesia and moral hollowness. "These celebs express dismay when something terrible happens in Palestine. But they are mum when Hindus are persecuted on a daily basis in Pakistan and Bangladesh," a Netizen wrote. Another Netizen wrote that these celebs stayed mum or perpetuated anti-CAA propaganda when the Indian government attempted to give citizenship to victims of religious persecution in three Islamic countries.
Are celebs paid by political PR agencies?
There is an allegation that influential PR agencies are behind online campaigns like 'All eyes on Rafah'. "A Telugu influencer who usually spends her time partying at pubs has made a Rafah post. I am sure she wouldn't be able to locate Palestine on the world map or know anything about the Israel-Palestine conflict for that matter. These influencers can be bought with money," a Netizen wrote.
