Rajkummar Rao Granted Bail in 2017 ‘Behen Hogi Teri’ Poster Controversy Case
Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao recently faced legal proceedings in Jalandhar concerning a controversial promotional poster for his 2017 film Behen Hogi Teri.
The hearing, held on Wednesday, was notable for the actor’s absence, as confirmed by his lawyer, Darshan Singh Dayal.
Background of the Case
Advocate Darshan Singh Dayal provided insights into the matter. The issue dates back to 2017 when a promotional poster of the film featuring Rajkummar Rao as Lord Shiva caused unrest among certain groups.
As a result, a case was filed against Rajkummar Rao, co-actor Shruti Haasan, and the film’s producer, director, and deputy director.
An FIR was lodged under multiple charges, including Section 295A (acts intended to outrage religious feelings), Section 120B (criminal conspiracy), and Section 67 of the IT Act.
Due to the seriousness of these charges, non-bailable warrants were issued against Rajkummar Rao.
Details of the Controversial Poster
The poster, released online on April 4, 2017, depicted Rajkummar Rao dressed as Lord Shiva. He was seen sitting on a silver motorbike with a UP number plate.
The actor wore a rudraksh bracelet, had a crescent moon on his head, and long hair. His appearance, combined with a casual pose and slippers, sparked controversy. The backdrop featured closed-shop shutters, reinforcing a street setting.
Rajkummar Rao Surrenders Before Court
Rajkummar Rao surrendered before the Jalandhar court on July 28 in connection with the poster controversy. Following his court appearance, the actor was granted conditional bail.
Advocate Darshan clarified, “The challan was presented in the court in the absence of the actor. Since the address in the summons was in Delhi, he was not informed about appearing in the court. Actually, the actor is living in Mumbai.”
He also mentioned that Shruti Haasan was acquitted after the court found her innocent. Director Ajay K Pannalal appeared in court the same day, and his petition was filed.
Actor’s Defence and Artistic Intent
The petition emphasized that Rajkummar Rao was merely portraying a character in the film, who performed as Lord Shiva in a Jagran troupe.
The poster, the petition claimed, was an artistic depiction without any intent to hurt religious sentiments.
Rao’s legal team further argued that Behen Hogi Teri had received certification from the Central Board of Film Certification, indicating that the film’s content had passed legal scrutiny.
Additionally, they referenced Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, which protects the actor’s freedom of expression.
Previous Developments and Court Proceedings
The controversy surrounding the poster led to strong reactions from specific sections of the public. The FIR and subsequent legal developments created ongoing legal challenges for the actors and crew.
Advocate Darshan reiterated the basis of Rao’s defence, emphasizing that the actor’s intent was purely artistic and part of a character portrayal. There was no deliberate attempt to offend any community.
Behen Hogi Teri and Current Updates
Directed by Ajay K Pannalal, Behen Hogi Teri featured Rajkummar Rao and Shruti Haasan in lead roles. The film revolved around a young man’s romantic struggles and featured light-hearted takes on cultural traditions.
While Shruti Haasan has been acquitted, the case against Rajkummar Rao continues, pending further hearings. The court will next review the arguments in light of the actor’s recent surrender and his legal defence.
Meanwhile, Rajkummar Rao was last seen in the film Maalik. The actor remains an active figure in Bollywood, known for his versatile roles and critically acclaimed performances.
