Swara Bhasker has found herself at the centre of a fresh controversy after her comments on the depiction of johar in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmaavat drew criticism from a right wing outfit in Agra. Members of the group staged a protest against the actor, with her posters reportedly being torn, burned and trampled during the demonstration.
The protest was held on Tuesday and was led by Yogi Youth Brigade state president Kunwar Ajay Tomar. Speaking against Swara’s comments, Tomar accused her of disrespecting the bravery and sacrifice associated with Rani Padmavati and other Rajput women who chose johar. He further claimed that the actor’s remarks reflected a lack of understanding of the historical context surrounding the practice.
The protest also escalated when Tomar announced a reward of Rs 1.51 lakh for anyone who cuts Swara Bhasker’s tongue. He also allegedly made abusive remarks against the actor while addressing the gathering.
The reaction comes days after Swara discussed the representation of johar in Padmaavat at the ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ event held at Delhi’s India International Centre on August 31. While speaking about the film, the actor raised questions about presenting johar as an act associated with honour.
Swara argued that such a portrayal could have a problematic impact, particularly on women who have survived sexual violence. She questioned the idea of placing a woman’s “purity” above her life and spoke about the implications of presenting death as preferable to surviving sexual assault.
Her comments have since led to a sharp backlash, with the latest protest adding another chapter to the ongoing debate surrounding the film’s portrayal of Rajput history and the representation of johar.
