Dhurandhar's Rakesh Bedi Addresses Claims of Inappropriate Behavior with Sara Arjun

Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi has responded to online criticism concerning his interaction with Sara Arjun during the trailer launch for their film, 'Dhurandhar.' The Aditya Dhar-directed film features Bedi as a Pakistani politician named Jameel Jamali. While the role has garnered renewed attention for Bedi, it has also sparked controversy.

The controversy stems from an incident at the Mumbai trailer launch in November. Social media users claimed Bedi appeared to kiss Sara Arjun, who plays his daughter in the film, on her shoulder. The video went viral, prompting the 71-year-old actor to address the allegations publicly.

Bedi firmly refuted the claims in a conversation with Hindustan Times, dismissing them as "stupid." He emphasized his respectful and familial relationship with Sara Arjun, both on and off-screen. Bedi explained that Sara, who is less than half his age, always greets him with a hug, similar to a daughter greeting her father. He highlighted their strong rapport and camaraderie, which he believes is reflected on screen. Bedi stated that the affection displayed that day was misinterpreted, lamenting that observers failed to see it as the affection of an elderly man towards a young girl. He questioned the perceptions of those who viewed it negatively, asking, "What can you do when people perceive it wrongly?"

Bedi also questioned the accusations, given that Sara Arjun's parents were present at the event. He argued against the notion that he would act inappropriately in public, especially with her parents nearby. He believes people are creating an issue out of nothing on social media.

The actor further emphasized his long and respected career, stating that his extensive body of work speaks for itself. He recounted a recent experience where a woman approached him to express her son's love for his work, despite the son's physical and mental challenges. Bedi believes such instances are more meaningful than the current controversy.

'Dhurandhar' has been impactful for its cast, with Bedi receiving praise for his comic relief in the intense narrative. The film, which also stars Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, Ranveer Singh, Saumya Tandon, and Danish Pandor, has performed well at the box office, nearing Rs 500 crore nett in India.