Bollywood beauty Shilpa Shetty has often found herself at the center of controversies, particularly during her marriage to businessman Raj Kundra. The actress has faced scrutiny over her past relationships, including her time with Akshay Kumar. However, a significant controversy that has haunted her for 15 years revolves around an incident in 2007 when she was publicly kissed by Hollywood actor Richard Gere during an AIDS awareness program.
This incident occurred in Delhi, where Shetty participated in an event alongside Gere. The moment turned controversial when Gere kissed her in front of a large audience, leading to widespread condemnation. Many people deemed the act inappropriate, claiming it tarnished Indian cultural values. Following the event, Shetty faced backlash, with accusations that she was promoting obscenity in society. The outrage resulted in protests against her in several cities, severely affecting her public image and career.
According to a report by Hindustan Times, a case was filed against Shetty in Rajasthan, which was later transferred to a Mumbai court. The legal battle persisted for 15 years, with Shetty enduring significant stress due to the allegations. In 2023, after a prolonged legal struggle, Shetty finally received relief from the court.
The court ruled in her favor, declaring her not guilty and recognizing her as a victim in the situation. The judges noted that Shetty had merely been a participant in Gere's actions and did not provoke or encourage the kiss. The court's decision marked the end of a long chapter of legal woes for the actress.
Reflecting on her career, Shilpa Shetty made her acting debut in 1993 with the film Baazigar, starring alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol. She gained fame in Telugu cinema with the film Sahasaveerudu Sagarakanya and has appeared in numerous Hindi films, including Apne, Phir Milenge, Dhadkan, Dus, and Life in a... Metro.
Beyond acting, Shetty has carved a niche for herself in the fitness and yoga industry, building a reputation as a businesswoman. Her journey through the film industry has not only showcased her talent but also her resilience in the face of adversity.
The incident involving Richard Gere sparked a nationwide debate about public behavior and cultural values in India. While some defended the kiss as a friendly gesture aimed at raising awareness about AIDS, others criticized it as a violation of Indian norms regarding public displays of affection.
In 2017, the Supreme Court moved the case from Rajasthan to Mumbai, where Shetty sought to be released from the allegations. She described herself as a "victim" of Gere's actions, emphasizing her lack of consent in the situation. In January 2022, the Mumbai Metropolitan Magistrate Court acquitted her, stating that the accusations were baseless and highlighted the need to consider context in such incidents.
The Sessions Court upheld this ruling in April 2023, reiterating that there was no evidence to classify Shetty as a perpetrator. The court stated that a woman should not be blamed for being in a foreign country and subjected to unwanted advances.
Shetty responded to the controversy by downplaying the incident, asserting that it was not a significant issue for her and that she did not feel humiliated by the encounter. Richard Gere, for his part, later expressed regret for how his actions were interpreted, clarifying that his intentions were solely to promote awareness about AIDS and not to offend Indian cultural sensibilities.
This long-standing controversy has illuminated the complexities of cultural interactions in a globalized world, especially when involving high-profile personalities. It has also sparked discussions on how public figures are perceived and treated in the media.
As of 2023, Shilpa Shetty continues to thrive in her career, showcasing her enduring appeal in the film industry. Despite the challenges she faced, she remains a prominent figure, known for her beauty, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit.
In a landscape where controversies can often overshadow achievements, Shetty's story serves as a reminder of the resilience required to navigate the turbulent waters of fame and public scrutiny.
