Deepika, Ranveer face backlash for naming daughter 'Dua' | The Express Tribune

Bollywood couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh have faced a storm of criticism after naming their newborn daughter “Dua,” an Arabic word meaning “prayer.”

The couple introduced their daughter on Diwali, one of Hinduism’s most auspicious festivals, posting a photo of her feet with the caption, “‘Dua’: meaning a prayer. Because she is the answer to our prayers.”

While fans celebrated the news, backlash erupted on social media, with some questioning why the couple, both of whom are Hindu, opted for an Arabic name. Critics suggested names with similar meanings from Hindu traditions, such as “Prarthana,” a Sanskrit term also meaning “prayer.”

Comments across social media reflected a broader discontent, with one user remarking, “Why not a Hindi name instead of an Urdu one?” Another referenced the couple’s Hindu roots, adding, “As Sanatanis, they should have chosen a name from their own culture.”

Padukone and Singh, known for their respectful approach to cultural traditions, hosted both Hindu and Sikh ceremonies at their wedding to honour their respective backgrounds.

Despite this, the couple’s choice of an Arabic name has drawn scrutiny in an increasingly polarised India, where incidents of religious intolerance have risen in recent years.

The debate highlights a broader pattern of rising anti-Muslim sentiment and religious polarisation in India.

Amnesty International reports have highlighted discrimination against Muslims in India, with incidents involving the demolition of homes and Businesses of minority groups, fuelling concerns over the Modi administration’s handling of religious minorities.

Supporters of Padukone and Singh called the backlash unfounded, with many arguing that parents should be free to choose names regardless of their cultural origin.