In 2007, Om Shanti Om, directed by Farah Khan and starring Shah Rukh Khan, was released as a colorful tribute to Bollywood’s golden years. The film was filled with drama, nostalgia, and star-studded appearances. While fans enjoyed the movie for its fun and flashy tribute to classic cinema, one particular scene upset legendary actor Manoj Kumar.
The Scene That Caused the Controversy
In one scene from Om Shanti Om, Shah Rukh Khan’s character tries to sneak into a movie theatre by pretending to be Manoj Kumar. He mimics the veteran actor’s well-known habit of covering part of his face with his hand. The scene shows a man playing “Manoj Kumar” being lathi-charged (hit with a stick) by security guards and thrown out. What was meant to be funny and nostalgic ended up hurting Manoj Kumar deeply.
Manoj Kumar’s Reaction: “It Hurt My Soul”
Veteran actor Manoj Kumar, famous for patriotic films like Upkar, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Purab Aur Paschim, was very upset. In an interview, he said, “I am hurt. Shah Rukh Khan has injured my soul. It’s a conspiracy to humiliate and ridicule me. This is not filmmaking.”
He believed the scene mocked his image and legacy, rather than honoring him. Manoj Kumar had built a career around strong values and patriotism, and he felt that the spoof could confuse younger viewers who weren’t familiar with his contributions to Indian cinema.
As a result, he filed a Rs 100 crore defamation lawsuit against Shah Rukh Khan, Farah Khan, and their production house, Red Chillies Entertainment.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Apology
As the issue gained attention, Shah Rukh Khan publicly apologized to Manoj Kumar. He explained that the scene was meant as a tribute, not to hurt anyone. “I was completely wrong. If he is hurt, I apologize,” Shah Rukh said.
Despite the apology, when the film was later released in Japan, the controversial scene was not removed. This further upset Manoj Kumar, who felt that the filmmakers didn’t take the issue seriously.
Eventually, the actor decided to drop the legal case, but not because he felt satisfied. He did so feeling disheartened by the lack of accountability from the people involved.
A Larger Debate: Tribute or Disrespect?
This incident sparked a broader conversation in the film industry: When does a tribute cross the line into disrespect? Satire has always been a part of Bollywood, but this controversy showed that not every joke is taken lightly—especially when it involves iconic figures with lasting legacies.
For Manoj Kumar, the scene felt like a personal attack on his life’s work. For the filmmakers, it was a light-hearted moment meant to honor the past. This difference in interpretation showed how sensitive the line between respect and ridicule can be.
Conclusion
While the legal battle didn’t continue, the controversy remains an important example of how humor and tribute must be handled carefully in cinema. Paying homage to legends of the industry is a beautiful tradition, but filmmakers need to be mindful of how it is received—especially by the very people being portrayed.
For more such updates, stay tuned to DNA Bollywood!
