The hate on social media is frightening, real and can be soul-destroying. But the haters didn’t contend with a target so naturally strong, she shut them down without needing to go even a millimetre down to their abysmal level. Yes, we are talking about Masaba Gupta, who faced horrible abuse on social media after she came out in support of the recent firecracker ban.

In an open letter, the lovely daughter of actress Neena Gupta and cricketer Viv Richards, addressed the issue directly and minus shame or hate.

"Recently I retweeted in support of the Firecracker ban by the Supreme Court and like every other issue in this country, big or small... the trolling and bashing began,” she writes, getting straight to the heart of the matter.

“By calling me names like 'bastard child' or 'illegitimate west Indian' it only makes my chest swell with pride. I'm the illegitimate product of two of the MOST legitimate personalities you'll find and I've made the best life, both personally and professionally... of which I am proud.”

Refusing to cower down before the ugly, hurtful name-calling, she instead avers, “I've been called these names since I was 10 years old and ever since I read the newspapers these are two words that I am immune to.”

https://twitter.com/MasabaG/status/918325963171151873

Her rejoinder to the constant insults about illegitimacy, she tackles with grace, flair and honesty… “My legitimacy comes from the work I do and what my contribution to society has been. And you can try but you will not be able to raise a single finger on either of the two.

“So, please. If you must... go ahead and continue calling me these names if it makes you feel glorious. But know this... I am a proud Indo-Caribbean girl who doesn't know how to shrink and crumble in shame of something you or your society cannot handle. It's just in my 'illegitimate' genes.”

Such spirit, girl, we are fans for life!
Masaba’s pal Sonam Kapoor is clearly her fan and friend for life too, as she tweeted, “Love you Masaba. You make us all damn proud.”

https://twitter.com/sonamakapoor/status/918330821215260672

That is something you both do, ladies… you make us all damn proud.