Why Did Manoj Kumar File a ₹100 Crore Defamation Case Against Shah Rukh Khan? The Apology That Followed
Manoj Kumar’s Passing: A Tribute to the Legendary Actor
On the early morning of April 4, 2025, veteran actor Manoj Kumar took his last breath. Bollywood is mourning the loss of the legendary ‘Bharat Kumar.’ Fans and notable figures from across India are paying tribute to the late actor. Amidst these tributes, one of the most controversial incidents from his life resurfaces—the time he filed a ₹100 crore defamation lawsuit against Shah Rukh Khan. Let’s delve into the details of this case and understand what truly transpired.
The Controversy: A Scene in Om Shanti Om That Sparked a Legal Battle
In 2007, the blockbuster film Om Shanti Om, starring Shah Rukh Khan and directed by Farah Khan, was released. It marked Deepika Padukone’s Bollywood debut and became a massive box-office success. However, one particular scene in the film led to significant controversy.
In the scene, Shah Rukh Khan mimicked Manoj Kumar’s signature style of covering his face with his palm. Manoj Kumar found this portrayal disrespectful and offensive. Consequently, he took legal action against the filmmakers, alleging defamation.
The Court’s Ruling: Removal of the Controversial Scene
The court ruled in favor of Manoj Kumar, ordering the filmmakers to remove the controversial scene from all copies of the film. Additionally, the ruling mandated that the scene should not be included in any television broadcasts or future media releases of the movie.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Response: Scene Removal and Public Apology
Following the court’s decision, producer Gauri Khan, director Farah Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan complied by editing the film to remove the disputed scene. Furthermore, Shah Rukh Khan personally apologized to Manoj Kumar for any unintended offense.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Statement on the Incident
In a media interaction, Shah Rukh Khan acknowledged his mistake, stating:
“I was wrong. I called him and apologized. People often do parodies, but I should have been more careful. I should have sought his permission before performing that scene.”
Why Did Manoj Kumar File a ₹100 Crore Defamation Case?
Despite the scene’s removal and the apology, the issue resurfaced in 2013. When Om Shanti Om was released in Japan, Manoj Kumar was shocked to find that the controversial scene had not been edited out.
Feeling deceived, Manoj Kumar filed a ₹100 crore defamation case against Shah Rukh Khan, producer Gauri Khan, and distributor Eros International.
Why Did Manoj Kumar Withdraw the Case?
Eventually, Manoj Kumar chose to withdraw the lawsuit. His legal team stated that he was deeply disappointed by the filmmakers’ failure to uphold their commitment. However, since the primary intention behind the lawsuit was to emphasize accountability rather than seek financial compensation, he decided to drop the case.
Manoj Kumar: A Man of Integrity and Legacy
Manoj Kumar, known for his iconic patriotic films like Purab Aur Paschim, Upkar, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Kranti, left a lasting impact on Indian cinema. His films carried strong social messages and resonated deeply with audiences, earning him the title of ‘Bharat Kumar.’
Beyond his cinematic contributions, Manoj Kumar was a man of principle who never hesitated to stand against injustice. His legal battle with Shah Rukh Khan is a testament to his unwavering belief in respect and accountability. His legacy as a filmmaker and a person of integrity will always be remembered.
