Patna: A written complaint has been filed against actor Swara Bhasker at Patna’s Kotwali police station over her remarks about the jauhar sequence in the film Padmaavat.
BJP leader Krishna Singh, also known as Kallu, submitted the complaint on September 2 and sought action over comments he said had offended members of the Rajput community.
Singh alleged that Bhasker’s remarks amounted to an insult to Rajput women and their historical sacrifice. He also called for the actor to issue a public apology.
BJP Leader Plans Protest March
Speaking after filing the complaint, Singh said an “Aakrosh March” would be organised in Patna over the issue.
He also said that the matter could be taken to court if required. According to Singh, police have assured him that the complaint would be examined and further action would be taken based on the facts.
Singh said freedom of expression should not be used in a manner that hurts the sentiments of a community and urged police to conduct an impartial inquiry.
What Triggered The Controversy
The controversy relates to comments Bhasker made during a ‘Women, Life, Freedom’ talk at the India International Centre in Delhi on August 31.
During the event, Bhasker discussed the depiction of the jauhar sequence in Padmaavat and raised concerns about the message such a portrayal could send to women who have experienced sexual violence.
Her remarks subsequently drew criticism on social media, with some users accusing her of disrespecting the historical significance of the episode.
What Is The Jauhar Sequence In Padmaavat?
Padmaavat, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, was released in 2018 and starred Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh.
The film’s climactic sequence depicts Rani Padmavati and other women of Chittorgarh undertaking jauhar after the Rajput forces are defeated.
The portrayal has previously been a subject of public debate because of its depiction of history, honour and sacrifice.
Swara Bhasker Issues Clarification
Following criticism, Bhasker issued a video statement on Instagram on September 1.
She said her comments had been misrepresented and clarified that she had not called Rani Padmavati cowardly.
The latest complaint has brought the controversy into the legal domain in Patna. Police action, if any, will depend on the examination of the complaint and applicable law.
