Russia-based influencer responds to backlash after hitting elderly man in Bangladesh: 'Not only touch...'

Monika Kabir, a Russian-Bangladeshi content creator, has defended herself after a video showing her hitting an elderly man on a busy street in Bangladesh went viral.

The influencer claimed the incident was an act of self-defence following alleged harassment by the passing man.

The video was shared on her Instagram and showed Kabir during a promotional shoot on the streets of Bangladesh. She said the elderly man moved close to her, shoved her with his bag and made an inappropriate comment. In response, Kabir struck him with the bag she was holding.

After the altercation, she picked up the bag and posed, smiling for the camera. She captioned the post: "where beauty meets bravery. Step confidently into your day!"

The model faced backlash on social media.

Some criticised her actions:

• Girl, calm down! Not every glance is an attack. Save the drama for something worth it.
• He was not checking out. He just look at you for a second then minding his own business You literally physically abuse him for views. You came to Bangladesh just for publicity. Nothing else.
• He didn't even touch her but see how she behaving
• You should leave Bangladesh As soon as possible. You have no Right to hit a older man. In Your video it was clearly shows he mistakenly entered.

However, the influencer said, “It's not only touch, it's also bad comment."

Some defended Kabir, saying that the video angle made it appear misleading and that she had acted appropriately under the circumstances.

• Finally ppl are standing out against creeps
• Nobody can harass women, she said.
• The road didn’t look crowded, but he still passed very close, his bag touching her body and staring at her. Anyone would feel uncomfortable.

Monika Kabir identifies herself as a "Russian model." She has claimed Russian roots but also maintains ties to Bangladesh. Her father reportedly moved to Russia before her birth.

Since last year, Kabir has been living and working in Bangladesh, frequently posting lifestyle, travel, and fashion content. Her online content includes gymnastic stunts on the Dhaka Metro Rail and other performances. She has more than 118,000 followers on Instagram as of this week.