Deepika & Ranveer Under Criticism Over Their Daughter’s Name

Bollywood power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh have sparked an unexpected social media storm after revealing the name of their newborn daughter, “Dua,” an Arabic word that means “prayer.”

The couple announced on Diwali, one of Hinduism’s most sacred festivals, sharing an intimate image of their daughter’s tiny feet alongside a heartfelt message: “‘Dua’: meaning a prayer. She is the answer to our prayers.”

Deepika And Ranveer Come Under Criticism

Padukone and Singh have long been celebrated for their respect for cultural traditions. During their wedding, they honoured both Hindu and Sikh customs to reflect their individual roots. But the decision to choose an Arabic name has drawn sharp criticism in an India increasingly divided along religious lines, with some viewing the choice as unconventional for a Hindu couple.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone & Ranveer Singh Expecting First Child

The backlash underscores a rising wave of religious tension in the country, where names, customs, and symbols are now seen through a highly polarized lens. Recent reports by Amnesty International highlight discrimination faced by Muslims in India, with documented cases of demolitions and targeted crackdowns on minority communities, further stoking concerns over religious intolerance under the current administration.

Supporters of Deepika & Ranveer

Supporters of Padukone and Singh were quick to defend the couple, insisting that a child’s name should transcend cultural boundaries and that parents should have the freedom to choose without scrutiny. But amid the celebrations, detractors flooded social media with criticism. Many questioned why the couple chose an Arabic name instead of a Sanskrit one, with some suggesting the name “Prarthana,” which also means “prayer” in Hindu tradition.

The social media debate quickly escalated, with one commenter asking, “Why not a Hindi name instead of an Urdu one?” Another added, “They’re Hindu – why not a name that reflects that?”

Even a name has become a point of contention in a climate of increasing religious polarization. For Padukone and Singh, however, “Dua” may be a beautiful word that reflects their love for their daughter — a reminder that even in a time of division, there are choices that transcend boundaries.