19 December 2025 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi has strongly reacted to the controversy surrounding a moment from the trailer launch event of his upcoming film ‘Dhurandhar’, where he was seen sharing a brief affectionate gesture with young actor Sara Arjun. The incident, which quickly went viral on social media, sparked mixed reactions, with some users questioning the appropriateness of the moment. Bedi has now broken his silence, dismissing the criticism as baseless and calling the outrage unnecessary.
Speaking about the backlash, Rakesh Bedi expressed surprise at the level of scrutiny the incident attracted. He said people were reading too much into a harmless, respectful gesture and described the criticism as “stupid.” According to the actor, the moment was taken out of context and misinterpreted by those looking to create controversy.
The actor clarified that the interaction took place in a public, professional setting and was devoid of any inappropriate intent. He emphasized that the gesture was one of warmth and encouragement, common within the film industry, especially during celebratory events like trailer launches. Bedi added that he has always maintained professionalism and respect while working with colleagues of all ages.
Rakesh Bedi also expressed concern over how quickly narratives are formed on social media without understanding context. He said that people are becoming increasingly judgmental and are quick to assume the worst. “People are just crazy,” he remarked, suggesting that social media outrage often lacks reason and balance.
Sara Arjun, who is 20 years old and has been part of the entertainment industry since childhood, has not issued any formal statement on the matter. Sources close to the young actor indicated that she was comfortable at the event and did not view the interaction as controversial. Supporters online have also pointed out that Sara Arjun has worked with numerous senior actors over the years and is familiar with public appearances.
Industry insiders have come forward in support of Rakesh Bedi, stating that such controversies distract from the work and achievements of artists. Several actors and filmmakers have criticized the tendency to sensationalize brief moments, warning that it creates a toxic environment within the industry.
The incident has reignited a broader debate about social media scrutiny and the boundaries of public judgment. While discussions around consent and appropriateness are important, experts argue that not every interaction should be viewed through a lens of suspicion, especially when no discomfort or complaint has been expressed by the individuals involved.
Rakesh Bedi further added that the focus should remain on cinema and performances rather than manufactured controversies. He urged audiences to judge films based on content and storytelling instead of viral clips detached from reality.
‘Dhurandhar’, which features a multi-generational cast, has already generated significant buzz ahead of its release. The trailer launch was meant to be a celebratory moment for the entire team, highlighting months of hard work and collaboration.
Despite the controversy, promotional activities for the film continue, with makers confident that audience interest will remain centered on the film itself. Trade analysts believe that while social media debates create temporary noise, they rarely impact box office outcomes unless the issue escalates further.
As discussions continue online, the incident serves as another example of how public figures navigate heightened scrutiny in the digital age. Rakesh Bedi’s firm response reflects growing frustration among artists over instant judgment culture and the lack of nuance in online conversations.
For now, the actor has made it clear that he stands by his actions and refuses to be drawn into what he considers an unnecessary controversy, choosing instead to focus on his work and the upcoming release of ‘Dhurandhar’.
Summary
Actor Rakesh Bedi dismissed social media criticism over a moment with Sara Arjun at the ‘Dhurandhar’ trailer launch, calling the backlash baseless and urging people to stop overreacting.