The Indian film industry is no stranger to controversies, and recently, actor Divya Khosla has added another chapter to the storied saga of Bollywood disputes. The latest conflict has erupted between Divya and film producer Karan Johar, following Divya’s outspoken criticism of Alia Bhatt’s latest film, “Jigra.” Through a series of heated and public exchanges on social media, Divya and Karan have turned the spotlight on the ethics of the industry, with accusations of derogatory language and contentious practices being central to the debate.
It all started when Divya Khosla took to her Instagram Story to express her dissatisfaction with the marketing strategies and reported earnings of “Jigra.” According to Divya, the film was a beneficiary of inflated ticket sales and dubious promotional practices. She posted a photo showing an empty theater, accompanied by a sharp critique: “Went to Citi Mall PVR for Jigra show. Theatre was totally empty…all theaters going empty everywhere.” This accusation was aimed directly at Alia Bhatt, suggesting that the film’s success was bolstered by deceitful means. Divya’s post continued with an incisive message, “#AliaBhatt me sach mein Bahut #Jigra hai.. khud hi tickets karide aur fake collections announce kar diye. Wonder why paid media is silent. #weshdnotfooltheaudience #truthoverlies #HappyDussehra.”
However, the narrative soon shifted from the film itself to the ongoing feud between Divya and Karan Johar, one of the leading figures in Bollywood. Responding to Divya’s accusations, Karan took to his Instagram in a more cryptic manner, stating, “Silence is the best speech you will ever give to fools.” This indirect remark did not sit well with Divya, who swiftly responded with her own Instagram post that read, “Truth will always offend fools opposed to it.” She further elaborated on her position, stating, “When you are shamelessly accustomed to stealing what rightfully belongs to others, you will always seek shelter in silence.
. You will have no voice no spine.”
In an interview with the Hindustan Times, Divya did not hold back her dissatisfaction with Karan’s choice of words. She challenged the power dynamics in Bollywood, asking, “Is it right to call a woman a fool for pointing out unethical practices? If this happens to me, what about those new to the industry? No one is a king here, and I won’t be treated like a subject. There are many more derogatory words which were used in their PR articles, and called my taking a stand as a PR stunt. I’m sorry, I don’t need one. I’m already well known.”
This public spat has also revived discussions around the representation of women in the industry and the challenges they face when speaking up against established norms. While Divya’s criticism extends to Alia Bhatt, she frames it within the broader context of industry ethics, emphasizing the need for transparency and integrity over the allure of money and fame. She addresses the community with a call for action, urging for decisions that honor merit rather than power and money.
The underpinning plot of the controversy revolves around the narrative similarity between “Jigra” and Divya’s film, “Savi.” Both movies entail a courageous endeavor to save a family member, though the relational dynamics differ. Divya’s film portrays a woman striving to free her wrongfully imprisoned husband, whereas “Jigra” details a sister’s daring quest to rescue her brother. This parallel has sparked comparisons and added fuel to the existing tensions between Divya and Karan.
Outside of the Instagram battle, “Jigra” is significant as it brings together powerhouse talents under the banners of Dharma Productions, Viacom18 Studios, and Eternal Sunshine Productions. The film, co-written by Debashish Irengbam and Vasan Bala, stands out for incorporating a modern rendition of “Phoolon Ka Taaro Ka” performed by Vedang Raina, further heightening audience anticipation.
As this dramatic episode unfolds, the industry and audiences alike are keenly observing the developments. Whether this controversy will simmer down or escalate remains to be seen, but for now, it serves as a stark reminder of the complex landscape of Bollywood—a place where the intersection of art, commerce, and ethics continues to create waves.
