Why should one hate Shahrukh Khan?
The reasons cited for the backlash and hatred towards Shah Rukh Khan are largely driven by ideological, religious, and political grievances, rather than objective criticisms of his work or personal conduct. Here are some key points:
Religious and Political Identity
- Shah Rukh Khan is often targeted because of his Muslim identity. Hindutva supporters and some Hindu nationalist groups view him with suspicion and hostility, accusing him of insulting Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma12.
- His political statements, particularly his comments on rising intolerance in India, have drawn severe criticism. In 2015, he mentioned the presence of "extreme intolerance" in India, which led to comparisons with terrorist figures like Hafiz Saeed by politicians such as Yogi Adityanath12.
Perceived Anti-Hindu Stance
- Some critics argue that his movies have portrayed Hinduism in a negative light. For example, it is claimed that he has questioned idol worship in some of his films2.
- The attire worn by Deepika Padukone in the song "Besharam Rang" from his movie "Pathaan" was criticized for allegedly insulting the saffron color, which is sacred in Hinduism1.
Economic and Cultural Influence
- Shah Rukh Khan's significant influence and wealth, which are attributed to the support of India's Hindu majority, are seen as reasons for him to be more aligned with Hindu nationalist views. Critics argue that he owes his success to this demographic and should not criticize India or its majority population2.
Media and Public Perception
- The media often sensationalizes controversies involving Shah Rukh Khan, which can fuel public outrage. This includes incidents like his altercation at the Wankhede Stadium, which was widely covered and criticized3.
It is important to note that these reasons are largely driven by ideological and political agendas rather than any objective assessment of his work or personal character. Many of these criticisms reflect a broader societal and political divide rather than a genuine critique of the individual.