Shobhaa De denounces Salman Khan's 'Sonam bro' post amid student protests

Author and columnist Shobhaa De criticized Bollywood star Salman Khan's Instagram message addressed to activist Sonam Wangchuk – "Sonam, it's done, bro" – labeling it "cringe" and out of touch with India’s Gen Z. De wrote the commentary for ThePrint, arguing the post missed the mood of the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) student protests and highlighted a broader disconnect between Bollywood celebrities and the younger generation.

De also noted that several other film stars, including Kangana Ranaut, Hema Malini and Anupam Kher, made similarly tone‑deaf statements after the protests escalated, suggesting many waited until it was politically safe to comment. While Salman had earlier expressed concern for injured students and called for educational reform, his later attempt to appear relatable by offering a home‑cooked meal to Wangchuk was widely mocked online.