Bhansali faces backlash over Salman, Aishwarya Karwa Chauth post

Mumbai: Bollywood’s festive posts often bring back memorable moments from the big screen. However, a Karwa Chauth greeting by Bhansali Productions has drawn attention for a different reason. Its choice of pictures featuring Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has left a section of social media users unimpressed.

The production house shared stills from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, showing the actors together in the song Chand Chhupa Badal Mein.

The caption read, “Kuch tasveerein, kuch yaadein, aur mohabbat ka ek khoobsurat afsana! Happy Karva Chauth.”

Why did the post face backlash?

While the pictures revisited the film’s romantic moments, several users questioned the decision to feature the former couple in a greeting for a festival associated with marriage. The production house also tagged both actors, drawing further attention to the post.

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Soon, reactions began circulating online. “Bhansali, it’s done, bro,” one user commented, while another called it “Peak ragebaiting.” Others questioned whether the choice was intended to generate attention. These were users’ reactions, rather than any confirmed explanation of the production house’s intentions.

An old pairing brings back a sensitive past

For the unversed, Salman and Aishwarya’s relationship ended years ago. Aishwarya had publicly accused Salman of abuse following their separation, allegations he denied. This history was among the reasons some viewers criticised the romantic post.

Aishwarya went on to marry Abhishek Bachchan in 2007. With the greeting referring to a “beautiful tale of love,” several users felt that featuring her alongside her former partner was an insensitive choice for the occasion.

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