Vicky Kaushal's 'Chhaava' blamed for Nagpur violence; fans defend actor
What's the story
Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal is in hot waters as his film Chhaava allegedly incited violence in Nagpur, Maharashtra.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told the state assembly on Tuesday that the movie, based on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's life, has re-ignited anti-Mughal sentiments.
However, Kaushal's supporters have come in his defense and claimed the movie doesn't incite violence but instead highlights betrayal and internal division.
Support
'Why was the film cleared by the censor board?'
Social media users have slammed those blaming Kaushal for the violence, stressing Chhaava doesn't incite violence.
One user wrote, "The recent violence in Nagpur is unfairly being blamed on Vicky Kaushal's movie Chava. it actually shows that he was BETRAYED by his close aides (jealous and greedy), not by the Mughals."
Another user slammed Fadnavis for shrugging off responsibility. "Why was the film cleared by the censor board? Why did Modi & Fadnavis praise it?" they asked.
Safety
'Vicky Kaushal should be provided with enough security'
Further defending Kaushal, another user opined, "Those blaming Vicky Kaushal for Nagpur violence are clearly operating on zero brain cells."
Yet another X user went ahead to appeal for security for the Masaan actor, writing, "Vicky Kaushal should be provided with enough security. No Bollywood will come and support him. He is on his own."
Violent clashes erupted in parts of Nagpur on Monday over a protest seeking the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb. Notably, Chhaava portrayed Aurangzeb mercilessly killing Sambhaji.
Box office success
'Chhaava' is Kaushal's highest-earning film to date
Despite the backlash, neither Kaushal nor the filmmakers have responded to the allegations.
On Tuesday, netizens called for a "boycott" of Kaushal for participating in "propaganda films."
Meanwhile, the film is enjoying an undisputed run at the box office. According to reports, the movie has surpassed the ₹560cr mark at the Indian box office in five weeks.
It's also now Kaushal's first ₹500cr film and his highest-earning film to date.