'I Doubt His Interests': Annu Kapoor Slams Naseeruddin Shah’s ‘Dimagi Naxal’ Remark
Veteran actor Annu Kapoor questions Naseeruddin Shah's patriotism after the actor proudly labeled himself a 'Dimagi Naxal' in a viral video.
The Indian film fraternity is witnessing a heated clash of ideologies as veteran actor Annu Kapoor has come out strongly against Naseeruddin Shah following the latter's provocative "Dimagi Naxal" comment. While both are stalwarts of the industry, their views on patriotism and national interest have created a sharp divide.
The Spark: The 'Dimagi Naxal' Badge
The controversy erupted after Naseeruddin Shah shared a video on Tuesday where he was seen wearing a badge that read 'Dimagi Naxal'. In the clip, Shah expressed his unwavering support for the students of Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi, who have been protesting to demand the restoration of their students' union.
During the video, Shah boldly stated, "I proudly declare that I am Dimagi Naxal. I don't know what other nicknames the watchmen have given to people like me, anti-national, tukde tukde gang, and I don't know what else." This is not an isolated incident, as Shah has recently used his social media platforms to back various student movements, including protests at the SRFTI in Kolkata.
Annu Kapoor Questions Shah's Intentions
Reacting to the video, Annu Kapoor did not hold back his criticism. While acknowledging that the freedom to protest is a cornerstone of democracy, Kapoor questioned whether Shah's motives truly align with the welfare of the nation.
"He may be good at delivering dialogues, but I doubt how much he genuinely thinks about the country's interests and welfare," Kapoor told ANI. "I have serious reservations about people who make such statements. It is our democracy that allows them to speak freely, make such statements and hold protests."
Kapoor further clarified his stance on dissent, asserting that while peaceful protests are a democratic right, any form of violence or damage to public property is completely unjustifiable.
Political and Industry Backlash
The firestorm didn't stop with Annu Kapoor. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also expressed his shock, stating that he had previously viewed Shah merely as a talented artist.
Speaking to the media, Rijiju remarked, "I didn't even know that Naseeruddin was a person with this kind of 'dimagi Naxal' mindset... Turns out he's a mental Naxal himself." In a separate post on X, the Minister added that he once respected Shah but now views him as a "dangerous urban Dimagi Naxal."
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit's Harsh Critique
Adding more fuel to the fire, filmmaker Ashoke Pandit condemned Shah's language and demeanor, describing him as a "compulsive abuser." Pandit suggested that Shah's public outbursts are a result of deep-seated frustration and an "inferiority complex."
Pandit argued that the success of films with specific narratives—such as The Kashmir Files and The Kerala Story—has left actors like Shah feeling insecure. In a scathing conclusion, the producer suggested that Shah seek psychiatric help, claiming that a "normal person" would not behave in such a manner.