Dhurandhar actor Rakesh Bedi apologises for using ‘Harijan’, says “didn’t know it is prohibited” after backlash

Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi has issued a public apology after facing backlash for using the word ‘Harijan’ in an earlier interview, stating that he was unaware the term is considered inappropriate and officially prohibited in India. The controversy gained traction after a video clip resurfaced on social media, prompting criticism from political leaders and community members.

The issue came to the forefront after Kailash Jaiswar, Mumbai State President of the Azad Samaj Party, shared a video and objected to the actor’s use of the term. He also revealed that he had directly spoken to Bedi over a phone call, explaining the sensitivity and legal status of the word, and urged him to issue a public apology.

Following this, a video message of Bedi apologising began circulating online. In his statement, the actor clarified that his remarks were made with good intentions while referring to B. R. Ambedkar and his work for marginalised communities. He said he did not intend to offend anyone and expressed regret, adding that he was unaware that the term is prohibited and inappropriate in present usage.

The controversy further escalated after reactions from members of the party, including Sunil Astay, who criticised the actor’s remarks and termed the apology a consequence of legal and social awareness. He emphasised that such issues are closely tied to dignity and constitutional rights, asserting that any disrespect would be met with lawful response.

Rakesh Bedi, who has recently been in the spotlight for his role in Dhurandhar and its sequel, reiterated in his apology that there was no deliberate intent behind his words. He stated that if his remarks had hurt any individual or community, he sincerely apologises, underscoring that his lack of awareness led to the situation.