Bollywood Icon Madhuri Dixit Called “Second-Grade Actor” by Congress MLA, Sparks Row
During a recent session in the Rajasthan assembly, Congress leader Tikaram Jully ignited controversy by referring to esteemed Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit as a “second-grade star” who has “passed her prime.” This comment arose amidst discussions evaluating the benefits of the recently concluded International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards hosted in the state.
Jully questioned the state’s expenditure on the event, alleging that over ₹100 crore of public funds were utilized. He expressed concerns that the promotional materials primarily highlighted IIFA rather than showcasing Rajasthan’s cultural heritage. Furthermore, he criticized the attending celebrities for not engaging with local tourist attractions, implying a missed opportunity for promoting regional tourism.
Highlighting the roster of attendees, Jully remarked that, apart from Shah Rukh Khan, the event was graced by “second-grade stars.” He specifically mentioned Madhuri Dixit, stating that while she was prominent during the era of films like ‘Dil’ and ‘Beta,’ her prime has since elapsed.
In response, BJP MLA Balmukund Acharya defended the significance of hosting the IIFA Awards in Rajasthan. He emphasized that the event, typically held in major global cities, provided the state with invaluable international exposure and bolstered tourism, showcasing Rajasthan on a global platform.
This incident follows a recent controversy involving Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed, who faced backlash for derogatory remarks about Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma on social media. She later retracted her comments and extended congratulations to the team after their Champions Trophy victory.
The remarks by Jully have sparked widespread debate, drawing criticism from various quarters for their perceived disrespect towards a celebrated artist like Madhuri Dixit. Many argue that such statements undermine the contributions of artists who have significantly impacted Indian cinema.