It was a scripted conversation: Sanjay Dutt after backlash for 'peace' remark

Actor Sanjay Dutt has responded to the backlash over his recent comments about India, after saying he no longer feels the same sense of “peace” in the country. With the remark drawing sharp reactions on social media, the actor has now clarified that the conversation was scripted and meant to be light-hearted, adding that he never intended to hurt or disrespect anyone.

“I would like to clarify that it was never my intention to hurt, offend, or disrespect the sentiments of any individual, community, or institution,” Sanjay wrote in his statement on X.

He added that his comments were made in the context of a scripted conversation that was meant to be humorous. “The spirit behind them was similar to the humour and satire seen in films like Munna Bhai, particularly the concept of ‘Gandhigiri,’ which was intended to convey a message of love, warmth, togetherness, and goodwill. Unfortunately, my words were interpreted outside of that intended context,” he said.

Sanjay had made the remarks while appearing on actor Shekhar Suman’s talk show, Shekhar Tonite, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti. Speaking in his trademark Munna Bhai style, the actor was asked about the current state of the country and said he no longer felt the same sense of peace in India.

“The people of this country are so lovely. There should be peace here. I can’t feel that peace in our country anymore. We Indians are large-hearted people, and we are hospitable. We have given so much, and we should always remain that way. I pray to Shivji that those days come back soon,” he said.

In another segment, Sanjay was asked to imagine himself as Prime Minister Narendra Modi for five minutes and address the people of the country. He once again slipped into his Munna Bhai persona and delivered a satirical monologue, which was perceived to be a veiled reference to PM Modi’s foreign trips.

“Bole toh itna bada desh hai, itne saare log hain aur ab hum sabki zimmedari apun ke upar. Par aap log ekdum tension nahi lene ka. Apun is khushi ko celebrate karne videsh nahi jaane wala hai. Apun idharich rahega, aap sab logon ke beech. Nahi to PM aur janta mein connection kaise banega,” he said.

Translation: (This is such a huge country, there are so many people, and now the responsibility of all of them is on me. But you people don’t have to worry at all. I am not going abroad to celebrate this happiness. I will stay right here, among all of you. Otherwise, how will there be a connection between the PM and the people? Otherwise, how will there be a connection between the PM and the people?)

Sanjay Dutt’s comments on the lack of the same sense of “peace” in India drew mixed reactions online, prompting the actor to explain the context behind his remarks.

Sanjay, who holds a 10-year UAE Golden Visa, frequently travels between Mumbai and Dubai for work, while his wife Maanayata Dutt and their twins, Shahraan and Iqra, live in Dubai.

Meanwhile, Sanjay Dutt has had his share of controversies over the years. He was convicted under the Arms Act in connection with the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case and was sentenced to five years in prison. He was acquitted of terrorism charges under TADA, with the court finding there wasn't sufficient evidence to establish that he was involved in the conspiracy behind the blasts.

On the work front, Sanjay was last seen in the political drama Aakhri Sawal, which hit cinemas in May. His upcoming projects include Khalnayak Returns, in which he reprises his role as Ballu.