Yoga guru and Patanjali founder Baba Ramdev has once again found himself at the center of a legal storm — this time over a controversial comment that’s shaken not only the public but also the Delhi High Court.
What Happened? The ‘Sherbet Jihad’ Controversy
It all began when Baba Ramdev released a promotional video endorsing Patanjali’s rose sherbet. Without directly naming Hamdard’s iconic drink Rooh Afza, he implied that purchasing it contributes to religious institutions like mosques and madrasas.
In his words:
“A company uses money earned from selling sherbet to build mosques and madrasas. If you drink that sherbet, mosques and madrasas will be built. But if you drink Patanjali rose sherbet, gurukuls and Patanjali university will be built. Like love jihad and vote jihad, a sherbet jihad is also on.”
This statement sparked massive backlash and eventually led Hamdard — the manufacturer of Rooh Afza — to move to court.
Delhi High Court Reacts Strongly
The Delhi High Court wasn’t having it. During the hearing, Justice Amit Bansal expressed deep concern over the divisive nature of Ramdev’s remarks:
“It shocks the conscience of the court. This is indefensible.”
Such harsh language from the bench underlines the seriousness of the issue, not just as a case of brand rivalry but as one bordering on communal provocation.
Hamdard Responds Through Legal Channels
Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Hamdard, didn’t hold back:
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Described the remarks as hate speech
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Called it beyond product disparagement — accusing Ramdev of fueling communal divide
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Pointed out that Patanjali is a successful brand and does not need to disparage others to boost its own products
Ironically, Mr. Rohatgi had previously represented Ramdev and Patanjali in the misleading advertisements case during the COVID-19 era.
A Pattern of Controversies: A Look Back
Here’s a snapshot of Patanjali’s past run-ins with the law:
| Year | Controversy | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Launch of Coronil | Marketed as COVID cure; falsely claimed WHO certification |
| 2022 | Ad against allopathy | Claimed Patanjali products cure serious illnesses like asthma and diabetes |
| 2023 | Supreme Court case over misleading ads | Faced public rebuke; founders issued formal apologies |
Latest Hearing Update: Court Warns Ramdev’s Legal Team
In the most recent Delhi High Court hearing:
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Ramdev’s proxy counsel sought a passover due to the main counsel’s unavailability.
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Justice Bansal issued a stern warning:
“The main counsel must appear by noon or be prepared for a very strong order.”
Clearly, the court is not willing to let this matter slide easily.
FAQs
1. Why is Ramdev being taken to court?
Ramdev is facing legal action over his controversial “sherbet jihad” remark, which allegedly targets Rooh Afza and promotes religious bias. Hamdard, the manufacturer, has accused him of hate speech and product defamation.
2. Has Ramdev faced similar legal trouble before?
Yes. He has previously been criticized and legally challenged for misleading advertisements, especially regarding claims made during the COVID-19 pandemic about the drug Coronil.
3. What did the court say about his comment?
Justice Amit Bansal of the Delhi High Court called Ramdev’s remark “indefensible” and said it “shocks the conscience of the court,” showing how seriously the judiciary is taking the issue.
4. Did Ramdev name Rooh Afza directly?
No, Ramdev didn’t explicitly mention Rooh Afza, but his indirect comments were enough for Hamdard to take legal action.
Final Thoughts
What was intended as a marketing push for a herbal drink has now snowballed into a full-blown legal and communal controversy. The courts are watching closely, and the public is left wondering: where do we draw the line between competitive branding and harmful rhetoric?
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Pari is a passionate writer known for captivating stories that blend imagination and reality. Inspired by travel, history, and everyday moments, Pari crafts narratives that resonate deeply with readers.