The shocking murder of Baba Siddique, a former Maharashtra minister and prominent figure in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), has reignited concerns over the safety of well-known personalities in Mumbai, many of whom have faced threats from criminal gangs. On October 12, Siddique was shot dead, allegedly by members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, just two weeks after he reportedly received threats. This violent incident is a stark reminder of the dangers that loom over celebrities, particularly in an industry as public as Bollywood.
Rising Threats in Bollywood
Siddique’s assassination follows a series of alarming events that have placed Bollywood celebrities under the watchful eye of the law. Just months earlier, in April, gunfire erupted outside actor Salman Khan’s residence in Bandra, Mumbai. According to the Mumbai Police, the assailants were affiliated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which has been linked to numerous criminal activities across the region. Khan’s close association with Siddique added a personal dimension to the threat landscape.
Given the escalating dangers, Salman Khan’s security detail was upgraded to Y+ following public threats made by Bishnoi. The gangster’s animosity stems from Khan’s involvement in the 1998 hunting of a black buck, an animal considered sacred by the Bishnoi community. Bishnoi has explicitly vowed to avenge this incident by taking out the actor, placing him firmly on the gang’s hit list.
Other High-Profile Targets
Shah Rukh Khan, another towering figure in Bollywood, has also found himself in the crosshairs of the underworld. The actor reported receiving multiple threats throughout his career, but the intensity escalated recently after the immense success of his films “Pathaan” and “Jawan.” In October, he formally lodged a complaint with the Maharashtra government about receiving death threats, prompting authorities to grant him Y+ security for added protection.
Kangana Ranaut, an outspoken actress and BJP MP, has faced threats related to her film “Emergency.” In a viral video, an individual threatened her with violence, stating, “If you release this movie, Sardars will beat you with slippers.” This incident showcases the volatile intersection of politics, film, and criminal threats in India.
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit also found himself under police protection in 2023 after he reportedly received threats concerning his film “72 Hoorain.” Pandit revealed that he was inundated with menacing calls as he promoted his project, prompting law enforcement to intervene.
Similarly, film producer Sandeep Singh received death threats on social media in 2022. A Facebook user menacingly claimed Singh would meet the same fate as the late Punjabi musician Sidhu Moosewala, whose murder sent shockwaves through the industry. Singh has produced notable films, including “Sarabjit,” “Bhoomi,” and “PM Narendra Modi,” adding to the stakes surrounding his public persona.
Sanjay Dutt has long been associated with the underworld, facing various threats over the years from notorious figures, including Dawood Ibrahim. His tumultuous history with gangsters adds a layer of complexity to his life as a celebrity.
In light of the gun violence that followed Sidhu Moosewala’s death, actor Akshay Kumar had his security elevated to X-category protection by the Maharashtra government, indicating the seriousness of the threats in the entertainment industry.
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Vivek Agnihotri, director of “The Kashmir Files,” faced threats due to the controversial subject matter of his film, which focuses on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s. His work has sparked intense debates, resulting in threats against his safety.
Despite the controversies and threats they face, some celebrities, like Deepika Padukone, have remained steadfast in their dedication to their craft. She has navigated the backlash surrounding films like “Padmaavat” and “Chhapaak” while maintaining her artistic integrity in the face of significant personal risks.
Navigating a Dangerous Landscape
Many prominent figures in Bollywood, including Amitabh Bachchan, Preity Zinta, Aamir Khan, and Karan Johar, have also encountered security concerns due to their stature. These celebrities navigate the pressures and dangers that accompany fame while prioritizing their safety and well-being. The underworld’s persistent threats highlight the complex relationship between celebrity culture, criminal elements, and the ongoing need for enhanced security measures in the industry.
As the landscape of Bollywood continues to evolve, the specter of underworld threats remains a haunting reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by those in the limelight, compelling both stars and fans to remain vigilant in these turbulent times.
