Rakesh Bedi Addresses Backlash Over Viral Kiss Gesture with Co-Star Sara Arjun
Veteran Bollywood actor Rakesh Bedi has recently spoken out to address the significant backlash he faced following a viral video clip from the trailer launch event of the film Dhurandhar in November 2025. The controversial footage showed Bedi, aged 71, greeting his younger co-star Sara Arjun with a kiss on her shoulder, which quickly sparked widespread criticism across social media platforms. Many online commentators labeled the gesture as "creepy" and inappropriate, questioning the actor's intentions and professionalism.
Bedi's Defense: A Paternal Gesture Misinterpreted
In a candid new interview with Red FM, Rakesh Bedi firmly dismissed the mounting outrage, asserting that his actions were purely paternal in nature. He explained that he has always treated Sara Arjun, who portrays his daughter in Dhurandhar, with affectionate care. "There was a small incident. The girl who plays my daughter in Dhurandhar, Sara Arjun. While shooting, every time she came, I would hug her and kiss her on the forehead—like a daughter," Bedi stated, emphasizing the familial context of their relationship.
Bedi further highlighted that Sara's parents were present at the trailer launch event, questioning why the moment was interpreted negatively. "I would just say, 'Come on, don't worry, we'll do a great scene together.' But at the trailer launch, when I greeted her the same way, people started writing all kinds of things. I was like, 'I've always treated her like this,'" he added, expressing frustration over the misinterpretation.
Senior Actor's Responsibility and Public Reaction
Elaborating on his intent, Bedi described it as a senior actor's responsibility to make younger co-stars feel comfortable and at ease on set. He believes such gestures help build trust and camaraderie, essential for collaborative filmmaking. Despite the criticism, Bedi noted that some people defended him online, though he remains philosophical about the controversy. "Thankfully, some people also defended me. But honestly, people just need a reason to talk. Kuch toh log kahenge, logon ka kaam hai kehna," he remarked, quoting a popular Hindi saying about public opinion.
Reflections on Success and Grounded Perspective
Shifting focus to his career, Rakesh Bedi reacted to the success of Dhurandhar and its sequel Dhurandhar: The Revenge, describing it as a "pleasant surprise". He acknowledged that such hits are rare in the film industry, benefiting actors, writers, and directors alike. "This success is definitely a pleasant surprise. A hit like this doesn't come often in anyone's life—be it an actor, writer, or director. Many people don't experience such success at all," Bedi shared.
However, the seasoned actor was quick to add that he remains grounded despite the acclaim. "For me, it's more of a coincidence that I'm part of it. But as far as my life changing is concerned—no, nothing like that. I haven't lost my balance or perspective. I've seen success many times in my career. I consider it very normal—it's part of the game," he asserted, highlighting his long-standing experience in Bollywood.
Crediting Director Aditya Dhar for Character Development
Discussing his role in Dhurandhar, Bedi credited director Aditya Dhar for conceptualizing and shaping his character. He emphasized the collaborative nature of filmmaking, where directors provide the foundation and actors add their unique touches. "I performed the role, but most of the credit goes to Aditya Dhar. He conceived and designed it. As an actor, you are given a canvas—you add your colours to it," Bedi explained, praising Dhar's creative vision.
This incident underscores the ongoing debates around boundaries and interpretations of gestures in the entertainment industry, especially between senior and junior artists. Bedi's response reflects a blend of defense against criticism and a mature outlook on his career achievements, maintaining that his intentions were always honorable and rooted in a fatherly bond with his co-star.
