Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has found himself at the center of controversy after he was seen wearing a luxury watch featuring an engraving of the Ram Temple. The incident took place during the promotion of his upcoming film Sikander, and it has since sparked a heated debate on social media.
The Watch That Started It All
During a promotional event for Sikander, Salman Khan was photographed wearing an extravagant wristwatch, which reportedly costs a staggering 11 million Pakistani rupees. The watch, known for its exclusivity, features an engraving of the Ram Temple, a structure that remains a highly sensitive subject due to its historical and religious significance. Only 49 of these watches exist in the world, making it a rare collector’s item.
Historical Context: Why the Ram Temple Is Controversial
The Ram Temple was constructed in Ayodhya at the site where the Babri Masjid once stood. The Babri Masjid, built in 1528 during the Mughal era, was demolished in 1992 by Hindu extremists, who claimed the site was the birthplace of Lord Ram. The demolition led to widespread riots and communal tensions across India, causing loss of life and property. The controversy was further fueled in 2019 when the Supreme Court of India ruled in favor of the construction of the Ram Temple at the disputed site. This decision remains a sore point for many Muslims, who view the destruction of the Babri Masjid as an injustice.
Muslim Fans Express Outrage
Salman Khan, one of Bollywood’s biggest Muslim stars, has a massive fan following, including millions of Muslim admirers. However, his decision to wear a watch with an engraving of the Ram Temple did not sit well with many of his Muslim fans, who took to social media to express their disappointment.
Some fans accused Salman Khan of trying to appease Hindu audiences for the success of Sikander. Others criticized him for being insensitive to the plight of Muslims who still mourn the destruction of the Babri Masjid. Social media users posted comments such as:
- “Being liberal doesn’t mean forgetting your roots.”
- “Wearing this watch means supporting the attack on the Babri Masjid and its martyrdom.”
- “Salman Khan should stay away from controversial religious matters.”
- “He is doing this just to win over Hindu fans for his movie.”
Salman Khan’s Clarification: A Gift from His Mother
In response to the backlash, Salman Khan addressed the controversy in an interview, stating that the watch was a gift from his mother, Salma Khan. He emphasized that the sentimental value of the watch outweighed any political or religious implications. He said:
“This watch was gifted to me by my mother. That is why it is very dear to me.”
Despite his explanation, the controversy has not died down, with many still questioning the timing and intent behind wearing the watch, especially during a high-profile film promotion.
Bollywood and Politics: A Delicate Balance
This is not the first time Bollywood celebrities have been caught in the crossfire of religious and political debates. The Indian film industry often finds itself entangled in controversies related to nationalism, religious sentiments, and political affiliations. Over the years, actors like Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan have also faced backlash for their views or actions perceived as anti-Hindu or pro-Muslim.
Conversely, some actors, such as Akshay Kumar and Kangana Ranaut, have openly supported the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its nationalist agenda. Salman Khan, however, has generally remained apolitical, which makes this controversy even more significant.
Impact on Salman Khan’s Career and Public Image
While Salman Khan is one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars, repeated controversies could affect his standing among certain sections of his fan base. Some analysts believe that this incident is unlikely to cause lasting damage, as he has weathered several controversies in the past, including legal troubles and allegations of favoritism in the industry.
However, given the religious sensitivities involved, the debate surrounding the watch may continue for some time, especially as Sikander gears up for its release.
Final Thoughts: A Lesson in Sensitivity?
The controversy surrounding Salman Khan’s watch highlights the deep-rooted religious tensions that still persist in India. While his intention may have been personal or apolitical, the symbolism of the Ram Temple remains a trigger point for many.
For celebrities like Salman Khan, every public appearance and accessory choice carries a deeper meaning, often beyond their control. Whether this incident was a mere oversight or a strategic move, it serves as a reminder that in the world of entertainment, every detail matters.
