Abhinav Kashyap Exposes Salman Khan’s Costume Controversy with Malaika Arora

Filmmaker Abhinav Kashyap has ignited discussions regarding Bollywood star Salman Khan with comments about a past conflict over costumes in the popular song “Munni Badnaam Hui.” In an interview with the Indian Express, Kashyap revealed that there were significant creative disagreements between Khan and Malaika Arora, who performed the song.

Kashyap asserted that both Salman and his brother Arbaaz Khan hold conservative views, which influenced their hesitance about Malaika’s attire in the item number. He stated, “They want their women covered up. So, they didn’t want her to do the item song.” This revelation has added to ongoing conversations about Salman Khan’s perspective on women’s fashion in the film industry.

Malaika Arora, known for her confident performances, reportedly defended her costume choices during discussions with Salman. She explained that her performance was “nothing vulgar, just dancing only, and it’s all family around in the song.” Despite these initial conflicts, “Munni Badnaam Hui” became a major hit and is still regarded as a significant piece in Bollywood music history.

The controversy surrounding Salman Khan’s views on women’s attire is not new. Earlier in 2023, actress Palak Tiwari shared her experiences while working as an assistant director on the film Antim: The Final Truth. She mentioned that Salman had a guideline on set that women should dress modestly, particularly emphasizing higher necklines. This statement stirred considerable debate, prompting Palak to clarify later that her remarks had been “misunderstood.” She explained that the guideline stemmed from personal respect towards senior colleagues, including Salman, whom she had admired since childhood.

As of now, Salman Khan remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, managing both television and film projects. He is currently hosting the 19th season of Bigg Boss and has started filming for Battle of Galwan, directed by Apoorva Lakhia, in the picturesque region of Ladakh.

The revelations made by Kashyap highlight ongoing discussions around gender representation and artistic freedom in Bollywood, as industry figures navigate personal beliefs and cultural expectations. As the conversation continues, it raises questions about the roles of women in film and the pressures they face within the industry.