Cancel culture, brand bias: Why celebs stay silent on uncomfortable issues

Taking a stand can also create sense of authenticity, build goodwill, say brand experts

As the protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over alleged sexual misconduct enters its fourth week, people continue to stand in solidarity with top Indian wrestlers at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. However, social media, with hashtags like #istandwithmychampions, #arrestbrijbhushan, #nationwithbbss and #supportbrijbhushan, also indicates the polarisation over the issue.

While the voice of people, including farmer groups, local wrestling communities and opposition parties, is widely heard, big names from fraternities like sports and entertainment continue to remain silent. Despite requests from ace wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who, along with Olympic medallists Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia,