Why Malabar Gold Partnered with Pakistani Influencer Alishba Khalid

Boycott Malabar Gold Intensifies Over Partnership with Pakistani Influencer.Malabar Gold & Diamonds faces a severe consumer boycott in India. The backlash stems from its collaboration with Pakistani-London influencer Alishba Khalid. The controversy erupted just before the major gold-buying festival of Dhanteras.The jewelry giant partnered with Khalid for a Birmingham store launch event. This decision ignited outrage due to her past anti-India social media posts.

Company Responds to Public Outcry and Legal Action

A viral video from the Birmingham showroom opening showed Khalid alongside brand ambassador Kareena Kapoor. This image enraged Indian social media users. They quickly circulated her historical comments.According to India Today, Malabar Gold stated it hired Khalid through a UK agency. The company claims it was unaware of her previous remarks. It ended the collaboration immediately after the backlash began.The firm has also pursued legal recourse. The Bombay High Court issued an order to Meta and Google. The order instructs the removal of defamatory content labeling the company as “Pakistan sympathizers.”

Influencer’s Past Remarks Fuel the Fire

The core of the backlash revolves around Khalid’s posts during Operation Sindoor. She had labeled India’s military action a “cowardly act.” She also accused Indian forces of targeting innocent civilians.One post, later deleted, read, “Shame on you, India! Killing the innocent isn’t strength; it’s pure cowardice. Pakistan Zindabad.” These archived comments have become central to the boycott calls. They have resonated strongly with the brand’s core Indian customer base.The timing during Dhanteras has amplified the financial stakes for the retailer. This festival is a peak sales period for gold jewelry in India. The public relations crisis now threatens to directly impact seasonal revenue.

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The ongoing boycott of Malabar Gold highlights the significant reputational risks brands face in the digital age. A single partnership decision can trigger widespread consumer action, proving that corporate alliances are now scrutinized more than ever.

Thought you’d like to know

Why are people boycotting Malabar Gold?

People are boycotting Malabar Gold for collaborating with influencer Alishba Khalid. She previously made posts criticizing India’s military during Operation Sindoor. This has led to accusations of the brand supporting anti-India sentiments.

What did Malabar Gold say about the collaboration?

The company stated it hired Khalid via a UK agency before her remarks were known. It claims to have terminated the partnership once the backlash started. Malabar Gold has also sought legal protection against defamatory content.

Who is Alishba Khalid?

Alishba Khalid is a 27-year-old London-based digital creator and filmmaker. She owns Downtown Studio London and has over 137,000 Instagram followers. Her content focuses on travel, brand collaborations, and event hosting.

What was Operation Sindoor?

Operation Sindoor was a military action by India against terrorist targets. The operation was conducted in the Pahalgam sector. It was this event that Khalid commented on, sparking the original controversy.

Has Malabar Gold worked with influencers from Pakistan before?

There is no public record of previous collaborations with Pakistani influencers. The company’s response suggests this was a one-time engagement handled by a third-party agency. Their statement emphasizes it was an isolated incident.