From Salman Khan to Deepika Padukone, 5 actors who received death threats
It is unfortunate that these talented actors have had to deal with such threats, which often arise from various controversies or personal opinions expressed publicly.
In the glitzy world of Bollywood, where fame and fortune often go hand in hand, there exists a darker side that sometimes casts a shadow over the lives of its biggest stars. Beyond the glamour and the applause lies a realm where threats and intimidation become a harsh reality for some actors. From Salman Khanto Deepika Padukone, several Bollywood celebrities have found themselves in the crosshairs of danger, facing chilling warnings and sinister plots against their lives. Here are five Bollywood actors who have faced death threats at some point:
Salman Khan: One of the most iconic figures in Indian cinema, Salman Khan, has seen his fair share of controversies and threats. From anonymous phone calls to public demonstrations, the actor has had to navigate through a minefield of dangers, all while maintaining his composure on and off-screen. However, the firing outside his house early Sunday morning shocked his fans across the world. Two unidentified men fired gunshots outside Galaxy Apartments. An FIR has been registered and an investigation is underway.
Deepika Padukone: Deepika Padukone received death threats in 2018 during the release of the film Padmaavat. The threats were linked to her portrayal of the character Padmavati, which led to widespread protests by certain groups who claimed the film misrepresented historical facts.
Shah Rukh Khan: Being one of the biggest stars in Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan has also faced threats. In 2023, a seer from Ayodhya issued a direct threat against the superstar, stating he would set him on fire upon encountering him. He expressed outrage over Khan’s film Pathaan’s alleged insult to the saffron colour.
Aamir Khan: Aamir Khan, known for his outspokenness on social issues, received threats in 2008 after his comments on the issue of Narmada dam rehabilitation. Security around him was increased following these threats. He also received a few death threats after the first season of his hit reality show, Satyamev Jayate.
Kangana Ranaut: Kangana Ranaut, who is known for her outspoken nature, received threats following a clash with Maharashtra MP Sanjay Raut, prompting her to enhance security measures for herself and her family.
It is unfortunate that these talented actors have had to deal with such threats, which often arise from various controversies or personal opinions expressed publicly.
Forum brings UK and Chinese film professionals together to explore collaborations.
Emerging British-Asian talent gain mentorship and international exposure.
Small-scale dramas, kids’ shows, and adapting popular formats were the projects everyone was talking about.
Telling stories that feel real to their culture, yet can connect with anyone, is what makes them work worldwide.
Meeting three times a year keeps the UK and China talking, creating opportunities that last beyond one event.
The theatre was packed for the Third Shanghai–London Screen Industry Forum. Between panels and workshops, filmmakers, producers and executives discussed ideas and business cards and it felt more than just a summit. British-Asian filmmakers were meeting and greeting the Chinese industry in an attempt to explore genuine possibilities of working in China’s film market.
UK China film collaborations take off as Third Shanghai London Forum connects British Asian filmmakers with Chinese studios Instagram/ukchinafilm
What makes the forum important for British-Asian filmmakers?
For filmmakers whose films explore identity and belonging, this is a chance to show their work on an international stage, meet Chinese directors, talk co-productions and break cultural walls that normally feel unscalable. “It’s invaluable,” Abid Khan said after a panel, “because you can’t create globally if you don’t talk globally.”
And it’s not just established names. Young filmmakers were all around, pitching ideas and learning on the go. The forum gave them a chance to get noticed with mentoring, workshops, and live pitch sessions.
Which projects are catching international attention?
Micro-dramas are trending. Roy Lu of Linmon International says vertical content for apps is “where it’s at.” They’ve done US, Canada, Australia and next stop, Europe. YouTube is back in focus too, thanks to Rosemary Reed of POW TV Studios. Short attention spans and three-minute hits, she’s ready.
Children’s and sports shows are another hotspot. Jiella Esmat of 8Lions is developing Touch Grass, a football-themed children’s show. The logic is simple: sports and kids content unite families, like global glue.
Then there’s format adaptation. Lu also talked about Nothing But 30, a Chinese series with 7 billion streams. The plan is for an english version in London. Not a straight translation, but a cultural transformation. “‘30’ in London isn’t just words,” Lu says. “It’s a new story.”
Jason Zhang of Stellar Pictures says international audiences respond when culture isn’t just a background prop. Lanterns, flowers, rituals, they’re part of the plot. Cedric Behrel from Trinity CineAsia adds: you need context. Western audiences don’t know Journey to the West, so co-production helps them understand without diluting the story.
Economic sense matters too. Roy Lu stresses: pick your market, make it financially viable. Esmat likens ideal co-productions to a marriage: “Multicultural teams naturally think about what works globally and what doesn’t.”
The UK-China Film Collab’s Future Talent Programme is taking on eight students or recent grads this year. They’re getting the backstage access to international filmmaking that few ever see, including mentorship, festival organising and hands-on experience. Alumni are landing real jobs: accredited festival journalists, Beijing producers, curators at The National Gallery.
Adrian Wootton OBE reminded everyone: “We exist through partnerships, networks, and collaboration.” Yin Xin from Shanghai Media Group noted that tri-annual gathering: London, Shanghai, Hong Kong create an “intensive concentration” of ideas.
Actor-director Zhang Luyi said it best: cultural exchange isn’t telling your story to someone, it’s creating stories together.
The Shanghai-London Screen Industry Forum is no longer just a talking shop. It’s a launchpad, a bridge. And for British-Asian filmmakers and emerging talent, it’s a chance to turn ideas into reality.
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