An employee of HDFC Bank has issued a public clarification after a video showing her saying “Thakur hoon main” went viral on social media, sparking allegations of caste-based behaviour.

Astha Singh, a relationship manager at the bank’s Panki branch in Kanpur, said the clip is more than a month old and has been taken out of context. She also clarified that the incident did not involve any customer, contrary to reports circulating online.

In a video message shared on social media, Astha said the 33-second clip was recorded on January 6 and only shows one side of the story.

“For the past day, this video has been going viral on Instagram and other platforms. Only one side is being shown. This video is old and it is not related to any customer,” she said, beginning her statement with a greeting and “Jai Shri Ram.”

What Happened in the Viral Video

In the original clip, Astha is seen arguing with another woman at the bank. When asked to control her language, she responds angrily and says, “To hell with you. Thakur hoon main (I am a Thakur).”

Other employees can be seen trying to calm her down and prevent the situation from escalating.

The remark led to criticism online, with many users accusing her of using caste identity to intimidate others.

Her Side of the Story

In her clarification, Astha claimed that the argument was with a colleague and her husband, not with any customer.

She said the woman had resigned and wanted her relieving letter immediately. The woman’s sister-in-law had been waiting at the branch since morning, which led to a disagreement.

Later, according to Astha, the colleague’s husband entered the office after working hours and confronted her.

“He asked me about my caste and said I was arrogant. He came to my desk and threatened me,” she said.

Astha added that the man used abusive language and her reaction came in response to his behaviour.

“I have not misbehaved with any customer. This issue was between colleagues and their family members. It has been wrongly presented as a caste-related matter,” she explained.

‘I Should Have Chosen My Words Carefully’

While defending herself, Astha admitted that she could have handled the situation better.

“I know I work in public service and should choose my words carefully. But when someone threatens me, I cannot tolerate it,” she said.

She maintained that her statement was made in anger and not with the intention to insult anyone.

“I am a Thakur and I am proud of it,” she said while concluding her message.

Ongoing Debate

The video continues to draw mixed reactions online. Some users have supported Astha’s explanation, while others believe public servants should avoid such language regardless of the situation.

So far, the bank has not issued an official statement on the matter.