Actor Saif Ali Khan recently opened up about the controversies surrounding his films, particularly the mythological drama Adipurush, during the India Today Conclave 2024 in Mumbai. The film, which was released in June 2023 and starred Prabhas and Kriti Sanon, faced significant backlash for its portrayal of religious figures and cultural sensitivities.
Addressing the controversies, Khan admitted that navigating the public and legal scrutiny was an “unsettling” experience. He discussed the legal implications of such disputes, saying, “There was a case and some kind of decision taken up by the court that said an actor is responsible for what he says on screen.” Reflecting on the pressures actors face in such situations, he added, “I know a lot of people are not free to say or do whatever they want. We all have to police ourselves slightly and be a bit careful; otherwise, there could be trouble.”
Sensitive Topics and Self-Censorship
Khan emphasized the importance of caution when dealing with sensitive subjects, particularly religion. “There are certain areas like religion that you need to stay away from. We are not here to make trouble,” the actor stated, acknowledging the fine line between creative expression and offending public sentiments.
The actor’s remarks come in the wake of the Adipurush controversy, where the film was criticized for its depiction of mythological characters, prompting widespread debates about the boundaries of artistic freedom. The controversy mirrors the backlash Khan faced with his earlier project, the political drama Tandav.
Lessons from the Past
In Tandav, Khan portrayed a politician, which sparked outrage and legal challenges over the show’s portrayal of political figures. Reflecting on this, Khan remarked, “I played a politician in a show (Tandav) which ran into a fair amount of trouble. So, you learn from the job. You need to be away from these areas.”
His comments suggest a shift in his approach to roles that touch upon politically or religiously sensitive subjects, underscoring the need for self-regulation in an industry where public backlash can have legal and professional consequences.
On the Work Front
Despite these challenges, Khan’s career remains active. His latest film, Devara: Part 1, starring Jr. NTR and Janhvi Kapoor, has hit theatres, continuing his steady presence in Indian cinema despite the controversies that have marked some of his recent projects.
