Deepika Padukone to Aamir Khan: Times Bollywood stars made India gasp with CONTROVERSIAL POLITICAL statements

Bollywood has always been more than just glitz and glamour; it's a mirror reflecting societal currents. Over the years, several actors have made political statements that stirred national debates, ignited controversies, and left indelible marks on public discourse. From calling India "intolerant" to redefining its independence, these stars have dared to speak (or act) against the tide and the country gasped. These aren’t your average publicity stunts; these were moments that collided with the nation’s political consciousness and shook the very core of celebrity influence in India.

Here are five instances when Bollywood stars made India gasp with their political remarks.

Aamir Khan's 'Intolerance' Remarks (2015)

In November 2015, during the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards, Aamir Khan expressed concern over the rising intolerance in India. He revealed that his wife, Kiran Rao, had considered leaving the country due to safety concerns for their child. This candid admission led to widespread backlash. Demonstrators protested outside his residence, defaced his posters, and called for boycotts of his films and endorsements. The e-commerce platform Snapdeal, for which Khan was a brand ambassador, faced significant pressure, leading to his eventual disassociation from the brand.

Kangana Ranaut's 'Bheek' Comment on India's Independence (2021)

In November 2021, Kangana Ranaut sparked outrage by stating that India's independence in 1947 was a "bheek" (alms) and that the country attained real freedom in 2014, alluding to the rise of the BJP government. Her remarks were widely condemned across the political spectrum, with many accusing her of belittling the sacrifices of freedom fighters. Several political leaders and citizens demanded that her Padma Shri award be revoked, citing her comments as seditious and disrespectful.

Deepika Padukone Visiting JNU During Student Protests (2020)

In January 2020, just days before her film Chhapaak was to release, Deepika Padukone made a silent but powerful political statement by standing in solidarity with the protesting students of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), after masked attackers injured students and faculty members on campus. Though she didn’t make a public speech, her presence was enough to polarize social media. #BoycottChhapaak started trending, while many hailed her courage. Her action sparked a major conversation about whether Bollywood stars should take political stances or remain apolitical.

Naseeruddin Shah's Concerns Over Religious Intolerance (2018)

In December 2018, esteemed actor Naseeruddin Shah voiced his apprehensions about the growing religious intolerance in India. Referring to incidents like the lynching of a police officer over rumors of cow slaughter, Shah remarked that he felt anxious for his children's future in a country where the life of a cow seemed more valuable than that of a human. His comments led to significant backlash, with protests and accusations of being unpatriotic. Shah later clarified that his statements were made out of concern for the nation's well-being and not intended to malign it.

Anupam Kher's 'March for India' Against Intolerance Claims (2015)

In response to growing concerns about intolerance in India, veteran actor Anupam Kher led the 'March for India' in November 2015. The march aimed to counter narratives suggesting rising intolerance under the Modi government. Kher and other participants submitted a memorandum to President Pranab Mukherjee, asserting that while isolated incidents of violence were condemnable, they shouldn't be used to tarnish India's global image. Kher emphasized that Indian culture promotes acceptance and that labeling the entire nation as intolerant was unjust.

These moments weren’t just fleeting controversies; they were seismic events in the entertainment-political landscape of India. In a country where actors are revered like gods, their words hold power.

Some of these stars became heroes of free speech. Others were branded as villains, anti-nationals, or opportunists. Whether it’s speaking out, standing in silence, or being pulled into political crossfires, Bollywood stars are as much a part of India’s political theatre as its Parliament. And as the nation grows more polarized, the space for celebrity activism only grows more complicated and fascinating.