Anupam Kher Defends Ram Temple Theft Remarks Amid Backlash

Veteran actor Anupam Kher faced extensive criticism after describing the alleged theft of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Temple as a "very small issue" compared with historic looting during the Mughal era. He said, "Temples were looted when the Mughals destroyed our temples… that was a far greater tragedy," which provoked backlash on social media, trolling, and rebukes from politicians such as Akhilesh Yadav.

Kher responded with a video posted on Instagram/X, asserting that he remains "standing by every word" he said and will not be swayed by trolls or influencers. He also addressed a resurfaced six‑year‑old video in which Naseeruddin Shah had called him a "clown," emphasizing that the two actors respect each other. In the video he stressed his philosophy of speaking fearlessly and “trying to become your own favorite.”

The controversy coincided with Kher’s promotion of his upcoming film "Shri Ram Bhoomi," in which he will portray a role linked to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.