An Indian-American doctor has spoken out after receiving a wave of racist comments online over a video in which she was wearing a bindi, saying she was shocked by the level of anti-Indian abuse directed at her despite being born and raised in the US.Dr Karishma Reddy shared her response in an Instagram video after her hilarious post about a patient’s unexpected reaction sparked hateful comments, with several users asking her to do so. “Return to India”.The reaction was unlike anything she had ever experienced before, Reddy said, adding that her years in health care were largely characterized by respect and acceptance.“I have never seen so much anti-India rhetoric in my entire life.” She explained that the medical community was always welcoming to her and that she rarely felt like a minority in that environment.In response to comments targeting her Hindu faith, Reddy also addressed misconceptions about the importance of cows in Hinduism. She said many Hindus avoid eating beef out of respect for the role cows have historically played in supporting families by providing milk, rather than because of the simplistic stereotypes often circulated online.She said she was saddened that people seemed increasingly comfortable spreading hateful messages on social media, and urged users to treat others with kindness.
“I hope this at least opens your mind to Hinduism and cows,” said the hostess “Be nice please.”The video received widespread support from viewers, many of whom praised Reddy for calmly dealing with the abuse rather than responding angrily.One user credited the doctor with changing his life through medical treatment, writing: “Dr. Reddy saved my life by giving me the opportunity to live pain free every day.
Take the hate elsewhere.”Another user commented: “So proud of you for showing up anyway. You saved me by giving me gender affirming care and I am so grateful to have you in healthcare and to hold space like you do and the way you support each and every one of your patients!”