Chennai Super Kings (CSK) player Suresh Raina landed in controversy with a comment on his “Brahmin” identity when asked about Chennai’s culture. Raina, who has been playing for CSK since 2008,  made the comment during a game of the ongoing fifth season of Tamil Nadu Premier League, where he was invited to join the commentary team. 

When asked about embracing Chennai culture, Raina was quoted as saying, “I think, I am also Brahmin. I have been playing since 2004 in Chennai, I love the culture… I love my teammates. I have played with Anirudha Srikanth, Badri (Subramaniam Badrinath), Bala Bhai (L Balaji)… I think you need to learn something good from there. We have a good administration, we have the license to explore ourselves. I love the culture there, and I’m lucky to be part of CSK. Hopefully, we will play more matches there.”

Social media users weren’t happy with his comments and expressed their displeasure.

“So watched the video, I once liked Raina very much and now im sad how ignorant he has been hiding all these days. Lost it! No more respect,” wrote a user. 

“Chennai culture is usually projected as Tamil Brahmin culture in some circles, Chennai Express etc. Filter coffee, Mylapore, Curs Rice with Maggi. Maybe Raina thought that this will help him get close to fans,” another person commented. 

Although Raina was heavily criticised, many social media users came out in support of the cricketer with the hashtag #मैं_भी_ब्राह्मण (I am also a Brahmin).

“Everyone whether he/she is an OBC or SC/ST or Tamil must be proud of what they are. That is what Suresh Raina doing and I don’t think it’s hurt to emotions of any caste and religion. Be proud of what we are. I firmly stand with Raina. I am proud of being brahmin. #मैं_भी_ब्राह्मण,” read a tweet.