Saffron outfit in Deepika's song in Shah Rukh's 'King' draws objections from BJP MLA, Ayodhya seers

Shah Rukh Khan's upcoming film 'King' is in the news. After the release of its new song 'Tu Mil Jaaye', a controversy has arisen over the saffron costume actor Deepika Padukone wears in it. Some politicians and mahants of Ayodhya have objected to it. Some have called it an insult to Sanatan Dharma and have also demanded a boycott of the film.

The song was released on November 2, Shah Rukh Khan's birthday. In just six days it has received more than 6.5 crore views on YouTube. But a debate has begun on social media over Deepika's saffron costume in the song. A similar controversy had earlier been raised over 'Besharam Rang', a song from the film 'Pathaan'.

The controversy began with a statement by Ravindra Singh Negi, the BJP MLA from Patparganj in Delhi. He objected to Deepika's saffron costume in the song. Negi said saffron is a symbol of Sanatan Dharma and that the film should be boycotted across the country. He also recalled an incident three years ago, when Deepika wore a saffron bikini in 'Besharam Rang' from 'Pathaan'. Citing that, Negi alleged that Sanatan Dharma is once again being mocked through Shah Rukh's film.

Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya, head of the Tapasvi Chhavani peeth in Ayodhya, also expressed displeasure over the song. He said saffron is a symbol of Indian culture and that the objectionable scenes should be removed from the song. He also said those who insult saffron for money should be punished. He warned that insult to saffron would not be tolerated.

Ayodhya mahant Sitaram Das Maharaj also objected to Deepika Padukone's costume. He said that disco dancing in saffron clothes in the song from 'King' would not be tolerated. According to him, saffron is a symbol of valour, sacrifice, dedication and devotion, and artistes should therefore respect the colour when using it. He also asked whether there was a conspiracy to defame saffron.

Another Ayodhya mahant also referred to 'Besharam Rang' from 'Pathaan'. He said that sadhus had earlier protested against scenes featuring saffron clothes. Similar scenes are now shown in the song from 'King' too, which is why he has expressed displeasure.

While viewers are responding well to 'Tu Mil Jaaye', the controversy over Deepika's saffron costume has added to the buzz around 'King'. All eyes are now on how Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone or the film's producers respond.