Shah Rukh Khan's upcoming feature film King has landed in a significant controversy well ahead of its theatrical premiere. The friction centers on the newly highlighted musical track 'Tu Mil Jaaye', where actress Deepika Padukone appears in a saffron-colored outfit. Ravinder Singh Negi, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA representing Delhi's Patparganj constituency, voiced strong disapproval over the scene and launched sharp remarks against actor Shah Rukh Khan. The lawmaker warned that failure to delete the controversial sequence from the song would trigger widespread demonstrations across the country.
Objections Raised Over Saffron Costume in Song Track
The core of the dispute involves the visual sequence of the song 'Tu Mil Jaaye' from the film King, wherein Deepika Padukone is seen performing in saffron attire. BJP legislator Ravinder Singh Negi characterized the portrayal as an intentional effort to hurt religious sentiments. He alleged that the placement of a color revered in Sanatan Dharma within a commercial dance setting constitutes a deliberate pattern rather than an artistic coincidence.
Sharply Worded Accusations Against Shah Rukh Khan
Directing his criticism squarely at the film's lead star, Ravinder Singh Negi accused Shah Rukh Khan and his associates of earning vast wealth from the Indian public while disrespecting indigenous traditions. During his remarks, Negi stated, 'I will call Shah Rukh Khan a jihadi.' The legislator argued that Deepika Padukone acts merely as a front in the production, claiming that broader underlying influences drive these artistic choices. He further questioned the justification for choreographing dance routines with such specific color schemes that offend religious sensibilities.
Warning of Nationwide Demonstrations
Issuing an ultimatum to the filmmakers, Negi stressed that failure to revise or excise the song's footage would lead to public unrest. He warned that protest groups are prepared to mobilize across various states, affirming that any perceived slight against Sanatan Dharma would face organized resistance until the visual elements are removed.
Parallels Drawn to the Pathaan Song Row
Negi explicitly drew comparisons between this current debate and the dispute surrounding Shah Rukh Khan's movie Pathaan nearly three years ago. In that release, the track 'Besharam Rang' similarly sparked outrage because Padukone wore a saffron bikini, prompting intense demonstrations from various Hindu outfits nationwide. The MLA noted that identical public outrage and organized demonstrations will follow if the makers of King proceed without altering the song.
Questions Over Public Stands by Dia Mirza
The legislator also brought up past public advocacy by actress Dia Mirza regarding environmental appeals during Diwali celebrations. Negi criticized public figures who campaign against firecrackers on Hindu festivals while maintaining silence regarding the sacrifice of animals during Eid. He described such stances as a double standard aimed selectively at traditional practices, stating that actors who rise to prominence through Indian cinema owe respect to the culture and religious values of their audience.
No Response Yet From Cast or Crew
As the debate gathers attention, neither Shah Rukh Khan nor Deepika Padukone has issued an official statement addressing the remarks or the demands for cuts. The production unit behind King has likewise not confirmed any editorial changes or alterations to the 'Tu Mil Jaaye' music video.
