Swara Bhasker faces backlash over Padmaavat Jauhar remarks

Actress Swara Bhasker has sparked intense controversy following remarks regarding the portrayal of Jauhar in the 2018 film ‘Padmaavat’. During a recent event in Delhi, Bhasker questioned the film's depiction of mass self-immolation, expressing concern that such imagery might send a negative message to survivors of sexual violence by suggesting that death is preferable to living with trauma.

Bhasker released a video clarification stating her comments were “completely mistranslated and spread falsely,” emphasizing that she never intended to label Rani Padmavati or the historical women who performed Jauhar as “cowards.” She clarified her critique was directed at how contemporary cinema portrays and potentially glorifies these historical practices.

In response, ‘Padmaavat’ co-writer Prakash Kapadia defended the film, stating the sequence was based on extensive research and reflected the historical reality of the period. He noted that the depiction represented a “do or die” situation common in medieval warfare.

The backlash has escalated from social media criticism to physical protests. In Patna and Agra, groups including the Yogi Youth Brigade have organized demonstrations. In Agra, protest leaders reportedly announced a monetary reward of ₹1.51 lakh for anyone who would “cut the actor's tongue,” citing an insult to Rajput women and their historical sacrifices.