The hashtag #BoycottNike is currently trending on X (formerly Twitter), igniting a heated debate across social media platforms. The controversy stems from Nike’s recent collaboration with Bangladeshi influencer NaleyByNature and the Indian streetwear brand NorBlack NorWhite. The partnership has sparked allegations of cultural insensitivity and anti-India sentiments, leading to widespread calls for a boycott of the sportswear giant.timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Hey jokers at @Nike,
— Amit Srivastava🕉️🇮🇳 (@AmiSri) June 15, 2025
You have chosen an anti-India Bangladeshi bigot as "Indian"?
Have you lost your mind! Good luck for destroying your brand for Indian customers! #BoycottNikeIndiapic.twitter.com/WdFlEyjcXV
Who Is NaleyByNature?
NaleyByNature, a Bangladeshi influencer and content creator, has garnered attention for her outspoken views on various political and social issues. Her recent posts, particularly those related to the Israel-Palestine conflict, have drawn criticism from Indian netizens who perceive her statements as anti-India. This perception intensified when Nike featured her in a promotional campaign, leading to accusations that the brand was endorsing her controversial views. The backlash was swift, with users on X and other platforms calling for a boycott of Nike products.
Nike (@Nike) is doing its first-ever Indian brand collaboration — with none other than anti-India Bangladeshi influencer @naleybynature. #BoycottNike
— Prashant (@prashant10gaur) June 15, 2025
Nike is partnering with NorBlack NorWhite, a Delhi-based fashion label. According to the Curated Culture Society, this marks… pic.twitter.com/wTtMAhFpcw
The Role of NorBlack NorWhite
NorBlack NorWhite, founded by Indian-Canadian designers Mriga Kapadiya and Amrit Kumar, is a streetwear brand known for blending traditional Indian textiles with contemporary designs. The brand has been celebrated for its efforts to preserve and promote Indian craftsmanship while challenging colonial narratives in fashion. Their collaboration with Nike was initially seen as a positive step towards inclusivity and cultural representation. However, the association with NaleyByNature has complicated this perception, as critics argue that the partnership inadvertently aligns NorBlack NorWhite with the influencer’s contentious views.teenvogue.com+7milleworld.com+7vogue.it+7
The Backlash and Calls for Boycott
The backlash against Nike intensified when it was revealed that NaleyByNature had previously been involved in a campaign that was perceived as anti-India. This revelation led to widespread outrage, with users on X and other platforms demanding that Nike sever ties with the influencer and reconsider its collaboration with NorBlack NorWhite. The hashtag #BoycottNike gained traction as consumers expressed their disapproval, calling for a boycott of the brand’s products.milleworld.com+2exchange4media.com+2timesofindia.indiatimes.com+2timesofindia.indiatimes.com
In response to the controversy, Nike issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The company stated that it was reviewing the situation and would take appropriate action to address the concerns raised by consumers. However, the backlash has persisted, with many questioning the brand’s commitment to cultural sensitivity and its choice of partners.
Conclusion
The #BoycottNike movement highlights the growing influence of social media in shaping public opinion and holding brands accountable for their partnerships. While collaborations between global brands and influencers can promote diversity and cultural exchange, they also carry the risk of controversy when the views of individuals involved conflict with the values of the brand’s consumer base. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how Nike will navigate the complexities of cultural representation and consumer expectations.
