While Salman Khan’s controversial rape comment drew strong criticism from all quarters, Bollywood has maintained a stoic silence on the issue.
Khan had compared his condition after grueling action sequences in the forthcoming Sultan to that of a raped woman recently. While most were appalled at his insensitivity over the entire matter, Bollywood celebrities decided to not react on the issue altogether. Surprising, considering our present day stars are vocal about injustice in the society.
In an recent interview to CNN News18’s Bhupendra Chaubey, versatile actor Irrfan Khan expressed his opinion on why Bollywood decided to maintain silence on the entire matter. The actor said, “ If you express your opinion, people get ruffled. We as an industry are not united. Everyone is looking for their own interest"
Khan took a diplomatic stand and stated that he wasn’t aware of the context in which Salman had made that comment but added, “Why do we always expect celebrities to say the right things?"
When Chaubey asked if Bollywood decided to keep mum because money is involved, Khan said an “Yes." “As professionals we are expected to bring back money. And actors are entitled to their own opinion," the talented actor added.
“Are Bollywood actors hypocrites?" prodded Chaubey to which the actor replied. We are vulnerable people. Maybe hypocrite but also vulnerable."