New Delhi: Anuradha Tiwari, the founder and CEO of a content marketing company, has ignited a social media storm after posting a photo with the caption “Brahmin genes,” sparking intense debate over caste identity and reservation policies in India. As the backlash mounted, Tiwari doubled down on her stance, sharing a series of provocative posts on X (formerly Twitter) that have drawn both support and criticism.
The “Brahmin Genes” Post: A Flashpoint for Controversy
Tiwari’s initial post, which showcased her pride in her Brahmin heritage, quickly went viral, amassing over 50 lakh views by August 25. The post not only drew ire from those who viewed it as casteist but also garnered support from individuals who resonated with her perspective on caste-based discrimination. Tiwari, whose X profile features the hashtag ‘#OneFamilyOneReservation,’ has long been a vocal critic of caste-based reservations, arguing that such policies unfairly disadvantage upper-caste communities like hers.
Tiwari’s Defense: “Brahmins as Villains”
In response to the criticism, Tiwari posted a series of messages defending her stance. She claimed that Brahmins today face social stigma and are often portrayed as “villains” by activists and politicians. “Brahmins today fear revealing their full name. So much hatred has been spread against us. We have been made villains by social justice activists & politicians. We don’t harm anyone. We get no help from govt. We work hard. Why should we be ashamed of our caste?” she wrote.
Tiwari argued that the Brahmin community, far from being oppressors, were protectors of Vedic knowledge who should not be made to feel guilty for historical events they did not cause. She asserted, “Hear this loud and clear: Brahmins didn’t oppress anyone. Don’t try to guilt-trip us for something that never happened. Our ancestors preserved the knowledge of Vedas and even died for it. I will be a proud Brahmin till the day I die. So, go cry somewhere else.”
Turning the Tables: Criticism as a Badge of Honor
Tiwari’s posts further claimed that the backlash against her was evidence of widespread prejudice against Brahmins. She labeled her critics as “inferior beings” and argued that the uproar over her “Brahmin genes” post exposed the “real casteists.” She pointed out what she sees as a double standard in Indian society, where pride in lower-caste or minority identities is celebrated, while pride in Brahmin identity is condemned. “Proud Dalit/Muslim/Tribal – Okay. Proud Brahmin – Not okay. There is an entire system working to make Brahmins feel guilty for their very existence. Time to change this narrative. Be an unapologetic Brahmin. Wear it on your sleeve. Let the so-called social justice warriors burn,” she declared.
The Hashtag War: #BrahminGenes Trend Emerges
Despite the controversy, Tiwari’s post has sparked a broader movement on social media, with many users rallying around the hashtag #BrahminGenes. Supporters have begun sharing their posts celebrating Brahmin heritage, turning the controversy into a platform for asserting their identity. One user highlighted the rapid growth of this trend, stating, “One single post by a Brahmin girl saying Brahmin Genes and the entire Cabal lost it. #BrahminHate is real. But what happened next? This started into a trend that exploded into Brahmins asserting their identity tagging #BrahminGenes. Be Brahmin. Flaunt Brahmin. Take a look.”
Broader Implications: A Divisive Debate on Caste and Identity
Tiwari’s posts have sparked a wider debate on caste identity, privilege, and the politics of reservation in India. While some see her statements as a necessary pushback against caste-based discrimination, others view them as a perpetuation of casteist attitudes that undermine efforts toward social justice. The controversy has highlighted the ongoing tensions surrounding caste in modern India and the challenges of navigating identity in a society deeply influenced by historical inequalities.
As the debate continues to unfold, Tiwari remains unapologetic, urging others to embrace their Brahmin identity without fear of criticism. The incident underscores the complex and often contentious nature of caste in contemporary India, where questions of identity, privilege, and social justice remain deeply intertwined.
