Cold conduct or sign of personal loss? Social media remains divided on Hema Malini's viral video

Netizens are split after a video of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Hema Malini distributing medals at a sports event went viral, triggering a wider debate on public conduct, empathy and political targeting on social media.

The clip, said to be from the MP Sports Competition, shows Malini awarding medals to students with a neutral expression. Her body language during the brief interaction has become the centre of an intense online discussion.

Questions over public conduct

A section of social media users criticised Malini’s demeanour, describing it as detached and insensitive. Some pointed to her facial expressions and gestures, arguing that presenting medals to young participants requires warmth and respect, not just formality.

Others went further, questioning the attitude of what they described as the political elite, accusing elected representatives of lacking humility outside election periods. The criticism largely focused on expectations from public figures during official engagements.

Calls for empathy and restraint

At the same time, many users came out in Malini’s defence, urging critics to show understanding. They argued that judging a person based on a short video clip was unfair and inhuman, especially when personal grief could be involved.

Supporters also claimed the backlash was being amplified for political reasons, stressing that Malini continued to attend public duties despite difficult personal circumstances. For them, the outrage over the absence of a smile reflected a lack of sensitivity rather than genuine concern.