After about a month of students protesting at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar seeking the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pardahan, film celebrities are now finally speaking about the issue. After Salman Khan, now R Madhavan also took to Instagram to pen a note seeking reforms in the education system and urged the protesters to be vigilant of “vested interests” that can try to take over the cause.
The note started with Madhavan talking about the importance of education. “Education has the power to shape the future of our nation, and every student deserves a system that is fair, transparent, and built on merit. As someone who has always believed in the limitless potential of India's youth, I share the concern and disappointment felt by so many students and parents today. An education system must inspire confidence, fairness, and opportunity. Incidents such as examination paper leaks undermine that trust and can deeply affect the hopes, hard work, and dreams of countless young people and their families—especially in a country like India, where education plays such a defining role in shaping lives.”
Not holding the government accountable, he expressed his faith in the authorities and wrote, “I urge the government to ensure that every individual found responsible is brought to justice swiftly and decisively. Let the consequences be so firm and unambiguous that no one ever dares to jeopardize the future of our youth again. Having acknowledged lapses in the past regarding this incident, I have faith that our government will take the necessary corrective measures, strengthen the system, and safeguard the integrity of education for generations to come.”
He then went on to allay the students. “To every young person feeling anxious or disheartened today: please don't lose faith. Your talent, perseverance, and character are far greater than the shortcomings of any system. Continue to work hard, believe in yourselves, and never allow temporary setbacks to define your future,” he wrote.
Madhavan then said that people should be vigilant of “vested interests” which might try to hijack the cause. “I admire the grit and determination of those who are peacefully asking for meaningful reforms. At the same time, I would urge everyone to remain vigilant against vested interests that may attempt to hijack your cause and divert it from its true purpose.”
He concluded with, “I respect every citizen's right to express their views peacefully and responsibly. My way is to stand firmly with our youth, support meaningful reforms, and use my voice to encourage positive change. I have always respected, supported, and prayed for the good health and wisdom of those entrusted with serving our nation, believing that together we can build a stronger and brighter future for India. Jai Hind.”
The comment section,however , wasn’t kind to Madhavan’s concerns. A user wrote, “Literally playing it so safe. Can’t believe I idolized you as a teen.” Another said, “How does it feel to live without a spine.” One more Instagram user took a dig at the Dhurandhar series which starred Madhavan and also referenced the fact that the actor actually lives in Dubai. “Peak detailings from the couch in Dubai!!,” they wrote.