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The world of Bollywood, renowned for its glittering glamour and captivating narratives, has a darker side that often goes unnoticed. This hidden underbelly is marked by threats, extortion attempts, and an enduring connection to organized crime. Recent incidents involving Bollywood superstars Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, who have been the targets of death threats, have thrust this disturbing reality into the spotlight, prompting a deeper examination of the vulnerabilities and dangers that celebrities face within the industry.
The history of Bollywood’s relationship with the underworld stretches back decades, with intricate connections established during the 1970s. Initially, these interactions were primarily social, characterized by the presence of prominent underworld figures at high-profile Bollywood events. Over time, however, these connections evolved, leading to the exploitation of celebrities for financial gain and the assertion of power through intimidation and threats. This trend has culminated in alarming incidents, such as the assassinations of music producer Gulshan Kumar and filmmaker Mukesh Duggal, highlighting the brutal consequences of this intertwined world.
In response to the rising tide of threats and extortion, Bollywood celebrities are taking increasingly proactive measures to ensure their safety. These measures range from hiring personal security guards and investing in bulletproof vehicles to even seeking firearm licenses. The recent acquisition of gun licenses by renowned actors like Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan underscores the growing sense of vulnerability within the industry. However, law enforcement officials have expressed concerns about the practicality and effectiveness of relying solely on firearms for protection, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive security measures and the need for thorough training in the use of weapons.
Despite the apparent weakening of the underworld’s grip on Bollywood in recent years, there are subtle indications of a resurgence. The industry’s long-standing entanglements with organized crime remain a pervasive issue, with celebrities and industry insiders acknowledging a lingering fear and a pervasive “politics of silence” surrounding the topic. As the fight against these criminal elements continues, Bollywood faces a challenging task in maintaining its allure while safeguarding its stars from the dangers that lurk beneath the surface of its glamorous façade.
Source: Salman Khan death threat to Shah Rukh Khan extortion demand: Is Bollywood a soft target?