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.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.