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The glamorous world of Bollywood, often perceived as a realm of glitz and glamour, has a darker side that is increasingly coming to light. The recent spate of death threats and extortion attempts directed at prominent Bollywood stars like Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan has exposed the deep-seated connection between the film industry and organized crime. This article delves into the history of this complex relationship, exploring the roots of the underworld's influence on Bollywood, the current threats facing celebrities, and the measures being taken to address this disturbing trend.
The nexus between Bollywood and the underworld is not new. Since the 1960s, Mumbai's underworld has maintained a close relationship with the film industry, influencing filmmakers, producers, and actors. This relationship was initially characterized by social interactions, with underworld figures seeking prestige and recognition through association with Bollywood's elite. However, this dynamic shifted over time, leading to intimidation and extortion as the underworld sought to exert its power and influence.
The targeting of celebrities has escalated in recent years, with a growing number of stars receiving threats, extortion calls, and even death threats. These threats highlight the vulnerability of celebrities, who are seen as attractive targets for those seeking notoriety, power, or financial gain. The case of actor Salman Khan, who received multiple threats, underscores the seriousness of the situation. In one instance, a message sent to the Mumbai traffic police's WhatsApp helpline demanded Rs 5 crore and threatened Salman's life. Similarly, Shah Rukh Khan received a threat demanding Rs 50 lakh, leading to the arrest of a lawyer in Raipur. These incidents highlight the chilling reality of the underworld's reach and the fear it instills among those in the film industry.
The rising wave of threats has prompted a re-examination of the security measures in place. While most Bollywood stars have no direct connections to criminal networks, they are increasingly taking proactive steps to protect themselves. Hiring personal guards, investing in bulletproof vehicles, and even obtaining gun licenses have become common practices. Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Ajay Devgn are among the stars who have taken these measures, reflecting a growing concern for their personal safety.
The long and tumultuous history of Bollywood's entanglement with the underworld has been marked by incidents of extortion, intimidation, and even violent crime. The violent killings of Gulshan Kumar in 1997 and Mukesh Duggal in 1998 are stark reminders of the dark side of this relationship. The arrest of actor Sanjay Dutt in connection with the 1993 Bombay bombings and the arrest of financier Bharat Shah, who was linked to underworld figure Chhota Shakeel, further highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the film industry and organized crime.
While the underworld's grip on Bollywood has weakened over the past two decades, officials and industry insiders warn that the danger is not over. There are subtle indications of a resurgence, with threats and intimidation attempts continuing to surface. Experts advise individuals who receive threats to report them to the police immediately and to avoid predictable routines and fixed routes. They also emphasize the importance of remaining respectful and calm if contacted by individuals connected to the underworld, to avoid provoking further aggression.
In conclusion, the recent threats directed at Bollywood celebrities underscore the continued threat posed by the underworld to the film industry. While the industry has made significant strides in addressing these threats, the history of violence and intimidation remains a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk beneath the surface of glamour and success. As Bollywood continues to evolve, it is crucial for authorities and industry stakeholders to work together to combat this pervasive threat, ensuring the safety and security of those who contribute to the world of Indian cinema.
Source: Salman Khan death threat to Shah Rukh Khan extortion demand: Is Bollywood a soft target?