Bollywood filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan is facing legal action following a criminal complaint filed against her for allegedly making offensive remarks about the Hindu festival of Holi. The complaint was lodged by Vikash Fhatak, also known as Hindustani Bhau, through his lawyer, Advocate Ali Kaashif Khan Deshmukh.
The complaint was registered at Khar Police Station, requesting legal proceedings against Khan over a statement made during an episode of Celebrity MasterChef on 20 February.
Fhatak alleged that Khan referred to Holi as “a festival for the Chhapris,” a term considered derogatory. He stated that her comment deeply hurt his religious sentiments as well as those of the wider Hindu community.
Advocate Deshmukh added, “My client believes that Farah Khan’s remark has insulted the religious sentiments of Hindus. Using the term ‘Chhapris’ to describe a sacred festival is highly inappropriate and could lead to communal unrest.”
The complaint further asserts that Khan’s statement has not only offended personal religious beliefs but has also caused distress within the Hindu community. As a result, an FIR has been registered against her under sections 196, 299, 302, and 353 of the Indian Penal Code.
Farah Khan, who is currently a judge on Celebrity MasterChef, made a remark about Holi that has sparked widespread criticism online. She reportedly said, “Holi is the favourite festival of all the Chhapri people.” The term “Chhapri” is often considered a casteist slur, and her statement has been widely condemned on social media.
A video clip from the show has circulated online, with many social media users calling her comment offensive. Several have demanded an apology from Khan for her remarks. Politician and ex-Bigg Boss 18 contestant Tajinder Bagga also called Khan “the biggest chhapri” over the remark, demanding that she apologise immediately.
Khan is yet to comment on the matter.
