Won't let anyone question my Indian roots, says Sania Mirza

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: Apparently upset with a controversy over Telangana government`s decision to appoint her as the brand Ambassador of the newly-created state, ace Indian tennis star Sania Mirza on Friday said that it is unfair that she has to keep asserting her Indian-ness.

Speaking to a leading news channel, Sania nearly broke down and said that she won`t allow anyone to question her Indian-ness. Mirza also condemned the comments of a Telangana BJP leader, who stirred a national outrage by describing her as "Pakistan`s daughter-in-law".

During the interview, Sania emphasized, "I am Indian, I will always remain one. I am not going to let anyone question my roots"

Sania also added that the controversy over her appointment as the Brand Ambassador of Telangana is pretty much done by now.

"As far as the controversy is concerned I think its pretty much done," she added.

Expressing what she felt about the controversy, Sania said, “Really sad, I don’t know if it happens in any other country.” She stressed that she got medals for India even after her marriage and it is unfair on part of politicians to question her Indian roots.

Sania also hit back at the country`s political class and said that there are more pivotal issues to be addressed.

"There are many other bigger issues in this country. I think people should just leave this petty issue aside," Sania said.

Meanwhile, reacting to Saina Nehwal`s tweet where the former had reminded the state goverment of the cash reward which she was promised after winning the bronze medal at 2012 London Olympics, Sania said, "I spoke to Mr KTR (TRS) today and he said that he has already replied to her (Nehwal)."

Bhartiya Janata Party leader K Laxman had criticised Telangana govt for appointing Mirza as its brand ambassador and giving her a grant, saying she is a non-local and "daughter-in-law" of Pakistan.

Reacting to the comment, the tennis star had said though she is married to Shoaib Malik, who is from Pakistan, yet she is an Indian and will remain an Indian until the end of her life.

Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal had on Thursday congratulated Sania but at the same time reminded the state goverment of her cash reward which was promised to her by the Andhra Pradesh government.