Siddharth writes open letter to Saina Nehwal after controversial remark: "Want to apologise for my rude joke"

Last week, Rang De Basanti actor Siddharth landed himself in trouble for a tweet directed towards ace badminton player Saina Nehwal. The actor had called Saina 'subtle cock champion' and netizens were infuritaed. Many called it crass, gross and a sexist slur that wasn't necessary. While Siddharth did try to explain what he meant, the criticism did not slow down. Now, the actor wrote an open letter for Saina and apologised to her.

Sharing the letter via Twitter, Siddharth has written, “Dear Saina, I want to apologise to you for my rude joke that I wrote as a response to a tweet of yours, a few days ago. I may disagree with you on many things but even my disappointment or anger when I read your tweet, cannot justify my tone and words. I know I have more grace in me than that. As for the joke... If a joke needs to be explained, then it wasn't a very good joke to begin with. Sorry about a joke that didn't land.”

Also read: Rang De Basanti actor Siddharth calls Saina Nehwal 'subtle cock champion' and netizens are enraged 

He further added, “I, however must insist my word play and humour had none of the malicious intent that so many people from all quarters have attributed to it. I am a staunch feminist ally and I assure you there was no gender implied in my tweet and certainly no intent to attack you as a woman. I hope we can put this behind us and that you will accept my letter. You will always be my Champion. Honestly, Siddharth.”

We wonder what Saina would have to say to that. Earlier, Saina revealed that she used to like Siddharth as an actor but was disappointed with this tweet. Her spouse too heavily criticised the actor for the tweet, as did several netizens including celebs like Chinmayee Sripada.