Salman Khan in Trouble for Wearing Ram Janmabhumi Hoodie: Controversy Stirs
March 29, 2025
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has found himself at the center of a religious and political storm after a recent incident in which he was photographed wearing a hoodie featuring the words “Ram Janmabhumi”—a reference to the Ram Janmabhumi temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, a site of great religious significance for Hindus.
The image, which surfaced on social media earlier this week, shows Khan sporting the hoodie during a casual outing. While many fans praised the actor for his bold choice, the move quickly triggered a heated debate across the country, dividing opinions on religious symbols in public spaces and the role of celebrities in such issues.
The Backlash Begins
For some, Salman Khan’s hoodie was seen as a symbol of unity and religious harmony, while others viewed it as an attempt to capitalize on a highly sensitive and contentious issue in Indian politics. The Ram Janmabhumi site has been at the heart of a decades-long religious dispute between Hindus and Muslims, culminating in the construction of a grand Ram temple after years of legal and political battles.
As the controversy unfolded, religious groups, political leaders, and social media users voiced their concerns, accusing Salman Khan of supporting one side of a deeply divisive issue. Critics argued that his celebrity status could influence millions of young fans, potentially inflaming tensions.
“We expect public figures to be more responsible in their actions. Salman Khan is a role model for millions of people, and endorsing such a symbol, whether intentionally or not, can lead to unwanted polarization,” said Rajesh Kumar, a spokesperson for a prominent political group, which called for an apology from the actor.
Supporters Defend the Actor
However, not all reactions have been negative. Salman Khan’s supporters have rallied behind him, arguing that the actor was simply expressing his personal belief and that his choice of clothing should not be viewed as a political statement.
“Salman Khan is a well-known philanthropist who has always advocated for peace and unity. It’s unfortunate that people are trying to make an issue out of something as simple as a hoodie,” said Aisha Sharma, a long-time fan of the actor. “He has always been inclusive and never been divisive.”
Khan has also earned praise from those who believe that celebrities should have the freedom to express their views and beliefs, as long as it does not incite violence or hatred. Some have pointed out that Salman Khan has, over the years, been seen sporting apparel with various religious symbols, including the Khanda—the symbol of Sikhism—and Om, the sacred Hindu symbol.
Salman Khan’s Response
In response to the mounting controversy, Salman Khan’s representatives issued a brief statement: “Salman Khan has always supported religious tolerance and harmony. Any clothing he wears is purely a personal choice and does not intend to hurt the sentiments of any individual or group. He has great respect for all religions.”
While Khan has not yet publicly addressed the incident directly, his team maintains that the hoodie was a casual fashion choice and not a political statement. The actor, known for his larger-than-life persona, has been under scrutiny in the past for his public remarks and actions, but this incident seems to have sparked one of his most contentious debates yet.
The Broader Context: Celebrity Influence in Politics
The incident has once again brought into focus the intersection of celebrity culture and politics in India, where public figures hold significant sway over public opinion. With the country’s complex religious landscape, every action, word, and even an article of clothing can become a flashpoint in the ongoing cultural and political discourse.
Celebrities, especially those with immense reach like Salman Khan, are often seen as influential figures in shaping social narratives. Some argue that public figures should tread carefully to avoid contributing to social divisions, while others maintain that they should be allowed the freedom to express themselves as individuals without facing backlash.
What’s Next?
As the controversy continues to evolve, all eyes will be on Salman Khan to see how he navigates this latest challenge. Will he offer a public apology, or will he stand firm in defending his right to wear what he chooses? The unfolding drama has only fueled the already heated debates surrounding religious symbols, political expression, and celebrity responsibility in modern India.
For now, Salman Khan’s fans and detractors alike will be watching closely, as this incident highlights the complex relationship between Bollywood, politics, and public perception in one of the world’s most diverse and rapidly changing nations.
