'We respect every individual and community' - Harbhajan Singh clears air after 'disability' controversy over viral Instagram reel

Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Suresh Raina garnered considerable criticism after they were seen jokingly limping in a video while dancing to the trending Bollywood song 'Tauba Tauba'.

The three legendary cricketers were a part of India Champions' side which won the inaugural edition of the World Championship of Legends last week. After the Men in Blue defeated arch-rivals Pakistan Champions in the final, the three stalwarts took to their social media handles and uploaded a video where they can be seen playfully limping and clutching their backs as they enter a doorway in a lobby.

Also Read: Yuvraj, Harbhajan, Raina face criticism for allegedly mocking differently-abled in viral dance video

However, their actions didn't go down well with everyone as para-badminton star Manasi Joshi criticised them for 'mocking disabilities'. A complaint was also lodged against the cricketers by Arman Ali, the executive director of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), with the SHO of the Amar Colony police station.

Harbhajan went on to express the motive behind the video, saying that it was their way of suggesting how much their bodies were aching after playing competitive cricket for 15 days straight. However, the former India off-spinner apologised to the people who got offended and called for the negativity to stop.

Also Read: 'Indian cricket can still survive without Pakistan' - Harbhajan Singh's blunt take on India's participation in 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan

"Just wanted to clear to our people who are complaining about our recent videos of Tauba Tauba on social media after winning the championship here in England. We didn't wanted to hurt anyone's sentiments. We respect every individual and community And this video was just to reflect to our bodies after playing continues cricket for 15days. SORE bodies.. we r not trying to insult or offend anyone.. still if people think we hv done something wrong.. All I can say from my side SORRY to everyone..plz let's stop this here and move forward. Stay happy and healthy. Love to all. Regards," Harbhajan posted on his official 'X' handle.

It is important to note that it has been a while since the three cricketers have played regular cricket. Yuvraj announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2019, while Harbhajan and Raina followed the same path in 2021 and 2022, respectively. After their retirements, they have featured in some tournaments involving legends but they have been few and far between.