Ahmedabad: As Indian bowlers engineered a spectacular collapse, there was controversy surrounding this high-profile cricket clash, off the field.
An advertisement by Make My Trip (MMT), published ahead of the marquee World Cup contest, triggered divided opinions on social media.
Headlining the ad ‘An open invitation to Pakistani fans,’ the Indian online travel company extended ‘heartfelt offers’ to visitors from across the border.
“Let’s take a moment and forget our rivalries. After all it’s not everyday that you visit us… So staying true to the Indian tradition of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava,’ we want to extend some heartfelt offers to you. If Pakistan loses by: 10 wickets or 200 runs, get 50% off. Use code: BoysPlayedWell; 6 wickets or 100 runs, get 30% off. Use code: EkShaheenHaar; 3 wickets or 50 runs, get 10% off. Use code: NoMaukaMauka,” read the advertisement.
Netizens were quick to flay the advertisers.
Many termed the ad as ‘horrible’ and vowed to boycott Make My Trip.
“We are not a sporting nation!!!! A sparring nation,” one user wrote.
“Horrible!! Horrible!! So that’s one more brand to ‘boycott’ for me at least… what have we become??? Does any other country do this to Indian fans? And it’s not about any love to Pakistan… this is just a game even kids won’t do this!” reacted one netizen.
“@makemytrip pathetic way to brand. Your creative agency needs to be changed and so is your brand custodian,” commented another user.
“Cringe! We can’t even be graceful hosts,” expressed another person.
There were some who praised the MMT ad, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag beong one of them.
“Na Ishq mein na Pyaar mein . Jo mazza hai Pakistan ki haar mein. Aise kaun invite karta hai yaar. Sahi khel gaye MMT!” Sehwag wrote on X.
“It’s a brilliant ad, of course Non Resident Pakistanis won’t like it,” was another view.
