Highlights:
- American writer Charles Haywood posted on X that “no Indian has accomplished anything of truly major note in the modern period.”
- His comments dismissed achievements of 1.5 billion people, sparking global backlash.
- Social media users responded with lists of Indian-origin CEOs, Nobel laureates, and ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 Moon mission.
- Critics pointed out leaders like Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, Indra Nooyi, Sachin Tendulkar, Amartya Sen, and Kailash Satyarthi as proof otherwise.
- Outrage underscores how such remarks feed stereotypes while ignoring India’s role in technology, medicine, sports, and literature.
This week, social media witnessed a heated storm after American influencer and writer Charles Haywood posted a remarkably dismissive tweet about modern Indian accomplishments. On X (formerly Twitter), Haywood claimed, “Has a single (subcontinent) Indian ever accomplished anything of truly major note in the modern period, in any field? I can't think of one. Nor can Grok. Seems odd, given there are 1.5 billion of them, and we're told we need to accept endless waves of them for their 'talent.'” The remark quickly went viral, drawing condemnation from people of all backgrounds, both in India and around the world.
The internet responds: Achievements that can’t be ignored
The online community didn’t hold back. Critics highlighted the ignorance of erasing the contributions of a diverse, global population. Indians and non-Indians alike listed out countless achievements—reminding Haywood, and the world, of Indian excellence.
Several pointed to the country’s influence in technology and business: Sundar Pichai leads Google; Satya Nadella heads Microsoft; Indra Nooyi served as CEO of PepsiCo; and Parag Agrawal was Twitter’s chief executive. These leaders don’t simply represent success stories—they are responsible for shaping the digital and business landscapes worldwide.
India’s advancements in science and medicine were also touted. Indian-origin scientists and doctors have played important roles in medical discoveries and pandemic response globally. At home, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) made history by landing Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon’s south pole—a feat that earned worldwide respect for Indian ingenuity and cost-effectiveness.
Sports, literature, and nobel laureates
The backlash wasn’t limited to technology. Social media users noted the international renown of cricket superstars Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. In literature, Indian writers like Arundhati Roy, Salman Rushdie, and Jhumpa Lahiri are household names. Nobel Prizes have gone to Amartya Sen (Economics) and Kailash Satyarthi (Peace), reflecting India’s global impact. Iconic historical figures—including mathematical genius Srinivasa Ramanujan, industrial pioneers Jamsetji and Dorabji Tata, and entrepreneur Dhirubhai Ambani—were also cited as examples of Indian achievement.
Memes, mockery, and setting the record straight
Predictably, Haywood’s tweet was soon met with both serious and playful responses. Some users listed achievements; others shared memes pointing out that Indian-origin executives run some of the very platforms Haywood used to issue his criticism. The tone ranged from cutting sarcasm to genuine outrage.
Why the debate matters
While some may brush off the exchange as just another online spat, the incident highlights the real-world impact of sweeping generalizations and stereotyping. Statements like Haywood’s not only dismiss the accomplishments of millions but also fuel damaging prejudices. For many young Indians, seeing global role models proves what’s possible; derogatory statements from influencers with platforms threaten to undermine those dreams and aspirations.
A lesson in pushing back
If this episode proves anything, it’s that the internet holds people accountable for broad, unsubstantiated claims. Social media ensures that no group’s achievements—big or small—are so easily erased. Charles Haywood’s attempt at provocation not only backfired, it also served as a reminder: Indians are not only contributing to the modern world, they’re helping to shape its very foundations.
