Bollywood filmmaker Farah Khan faces legal trouble after a criminal complaint was filed against her for derogatory remarks about Holi during a Celebrity MasterChef episode on February 20. Vikash Fhatak, known as Hindustani Bhau, claims her comment referred to Holi as “a festival for the Chhapris,” causing offense to Hindu sentiments. Advocate Ali Kaashif Khan Deshmukh, representing Fhatak, states that the term “Chhapri” is derogatory and her remarks could incite communal tensions. The FIR includes several sections of the Indian Penal Code. Khan has faced significant backlash on social media following the incident.
Mumbai:
Bollywood director and choreographer Farah Khan is facing criticism following a criminal complaint accusing her of making offensive comments about the Hindu festival of Holi.
The grievance was lodged by Vikash Fhatak, known as Hindustani Bhau, through his attorney Advocate Ali Kaashif Khan Deshmukh. According to recent updates, the complaint was formally submitted today at Khar Police Station, calling for legal action against Farah for her contentious remarks made during an episode of the TV show Celebrity MasterChef on February 20.
In the grievance, Fhatak alleges that Khan labeled Holi as “a festival for the Chhapris,” using a term perceived as derogatory. Hindustani Bhau also mentioned that Khan’s comment has severely offended his personal religious sentiments as well as those of the broader Hindu community.
Advocate Deshmukh remarked, “My client asserts that Farah Khan’s remarks have disrespected the religious sentiments of Hindus. Referring to a sacred festival using the term ‘Chhapris’ is extremely inappropriate and could potentially incite communal discord.”
An excerpt from the complaint stated, “My client asserts that the accused has not only offended my personal religious feelings but has also disturbed the Hindu community as a whole. This incident involves Ms. Farah Khan, a well-known Bollywood director and choreographer, who recently made a highly derogatory and offensive comment about the Hindu festival of Holi. Through this complaint, I am seeking justice under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and urge your respected office to take legal action against Khan for her irresponsible and inflammatory comments.”
The FIR has been lodged against Farah Khan under sections 196, 299, 302, and 353 of the Indian Penal Code.
Farah Khan, who is currently a judge on Celebrity MasterChef, made a statement about the Holi festival that drew backlash on social media. She remarked, “Holi is the favorite festival of all the chhapri people.” For those unfamiliar, the term “chhapri” is viewed as a casteist slur. Khan faced significant trolling on social media as a result.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)