Swara Bhaskar Faces Backlash Over Social Media Post, Issues Clarification

Ziya Khan February 22, 2025Last Updated: February 22, 2025

Actress Swara Bhaskar has found herself at the center of yet another controversy following a social media post where she drew parallels between the torture scenes in the film Chhaava and the Maha Kumbh stampede. Her comments sparked widespread outrage on social media, with audiences expressing mixed reactions. While some supported her perspective, others criticized her remarks, leading to another wave of trolling aimed at the actress.

For context, Swara’s earlier post highlighted the stark contrast between the outrage over the depiction of Chhatrapati Sambhaji’s torture in Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal, and the silence over viral videos of the alleged mismanagement and stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. She wrote, “A society that is more enraged at the heavily embellished, partly fictionalized filmy torture of Hindus from 500 years ago than they are at the horrendous deaths by stampede & mismanagement + the alleged JCB bulldozer handling of corpses – is a brain & soul-dead society. #IYKYK”.

My tweet has generated much debate & avoidable misunderstanding. Without any doubt I respect the brave legacy and contribution of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.. especially his ideas of social justice & respect for women.
My limited point is that glorifying our history is great… https://t.co/YKk1QgiQRG

— Swara Bhasker (@ReallySwara) February 21, 2025

The backlash prompted Swara to issue a clarification on Friday. In her statement, she expressed regret over unintentionally hurting sentiments. She wrote, “My tweet has generated much debate and avoidable misunderstanding. I deeply respect the brave legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, especially his ideas of social justice and respect for women. My point is that glorifying history is great, but it should not be misused to hide present-day failures. Historical understanding should unite us, not divide or divert attention from current issues.” She added, “If my earlier tweet hurt any sentiments, I regret it. Like any proud Indian, I am proud of our history, which should give us strength to build a better, inclusive future.”

About Chhaava

Based on Shivaji Sawant’s novel of the same name, the film stars Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna. Released on February 14, the film delves into the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji, showcasing his courage and sacrifice.