'Abusing is not cool': Manu Bhaker's social media post goes viral

Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker has cautioned young people against using abusive language, stating that foul language is not trendy and that the words individuals choose reflect their character. The 23-year-old shooter, who clinched two medals at the Paris Olympics 2024, posted a lengthy message on social media platform X on Sunday.

She did not cite any specific incident but instead addressed the growing prevalence of offensive language in daily discourse. Bhaker emphasized the importance of careful word selection, warning that repeated use of such language can shape one's character over time. "Choose your words wisely," she advised, "because over time, you become what you think, what you speak, and what you practice."

She added that being "cool" has nothing to do with abusive language. According to Bhaker, coolness is defined by being hardworking, kind, respectful towards others and oneself, striving for success through honesty, and earning pride for one's parents and nation. She revealed that she chose to address the issue because the normalization of abusive language, particularly among younger generations, has become a growing concern.

"I'm speaking about this because, over the past few years, the way we perceive abusive language has changed," she explained. "For many, using such words has become so commonplace that it's even considered 'cool.' Without realizing it, people casually employ degrading and disrespectful language in everyday conversations." Bhaker, who created history by becoming the first Indian athlete since independence to win two medals at a single Olympic Games, won bronze in the women's 10m air pistol event and another bronze in the 10m air pistol mixed team event at Paris 2024.