NB Scan X | MakeMyTrip offers discount for Pakistani cricket fans; draws flak for insensitive ad

The travelling company, Make My Trip has landed in major trouble after an advertisement on the India-Pakistan World Cup match sparked controversy, with many people calling it insensitive and tone-deaf. The latest advertisement was published in the Ahmedabad Times.

 

 

 

In its new ad, MakeMyTrip has given consolation offers to Pakistani fans on MakeMyTrip Homestays and Villas for when the Pakistan team loses the match today.

 

The ad, which offers discounts on travel to India based on the margin of Pakistan's defeat in the upcoming ODI World Cup match, has been criticized for making light of a serious issue.

 

The MMT's campaign kickstarted with the bold statement, "AN OPEN INVITATION TO PAKISTANI FANS," and continued with a shocking offer. The ad invoked the Sanskrit verse ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ or “Guest is equivalent to God” – sparking backlash from a section of the internet. 

 

The advertisement said, “Let’s take a moment and forget our rivalries. After all, it is not every day that you visit us. So, staying true to the Indian tradition of ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’ [the guest is equivalent to god], we want to extend some heartfelt offers to you.”

 

The ad then offered discount codes based on how many wickets and/or run differences Pakistan would lose the match on Saturday.

 

“If Pakistan loses by 10 wickets or 200 runs, get 50% off. Use code: BoysPlayedWell.6 wickets or 100 runs, get 30% off. Use code: EkShaheenHaar.3 wickets or 50 runs, get 10% off. Use code: NoMaukaMauka,” MakeMyTrip promised Pakistani fans.

 

The ad's message backfired as it was perceived as mocking and in poor taste. It ignited a flurry of negative responses on social media, with many criticising the brand's attempt at humour amid a highly anticipated sporting event.

 

Meanwhile, India won the toss and chose to bowl. The high-voltage match is taking place in Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium.