An FIR has been filed against Bollywood director and choreographer Farah Khan for allegedly calling Holi, a festival for the Chhapris (a casteist slur considered to be derogatory). According to ABP news, the complaint has been lodged at Khar Police station on Friday, after she made the comment in a recent episode of TV reality show Celebrity Master Chef on Thursday, February 20.
Notably, the complaint has been filed by Vikash Fhatak, popularly known as Hindustani Bhau. His advocate, Ali Kaashif Khan Deshmukh reported to ABP News, “My client states that this comment made by Farah Khan has insulted the religious sentiments of the Hindus. The use of the term ‘Chhapris’ to describe a sacred festival is highly inappropriate and has the potential to cause communal tension.”
The complaint read, “The incident involves Ms Farah Khan, a prominent Bollywood filmmaker and choreographer, who recently made a highly derogatory and offensive remark against the Hindu festival of Holi.”
It further added “Through this complaint, I seek justice under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and request your esteemed office to initiate legal action against Khan for her irresponsible and inflammatory statements.”
A report by IANS states that Hindustani Bhau calls the remark deeply offensive for his personal religious sentiments as well as those of the broader Hindu community. The complaint urged police to take action against Farah under various sections of the IPC including 196, 299, 302 and 353.
Farah Khan is currently a judge at the TV reality show, Celebrity Master Chef alongside renowned chefs Vikas Khanna and Ranveer Brar. The director and choreography has landed in trouble, stirring up controversy after her comment on the show. She hasn’t commented after her remark on the show. She had said, “Holi is the favorite festival of all the chhapri people.” Farah drew criticism and severe backlash on social media, further an FIR lodging against her.
Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga took to X saying, “Shameful statement by @TheFarahKhan. Targeting Indian culture and festivals has become a soft target for people like Farah Khan.”