The world of Indian television has been set abuzz by a promotional clip from the upcoming show 'Dhurandhar', featuring a kiss between veteran actor Rakesh Bedi and his much younger co-star, Sara Arjun. The video, which went viral, sparked intense debate and controversy among viewers, leading to widespread discussion on social media platforms.
Rakesh Bedi's Candid Response to the Backlash
In an exclusive conversation, Rakesh Bedi has now addressed the swirling controversy head-on. The seasoned actor acknowledged the significant age difference between himself and Sara Arjun, stating plainly, "She's half my age." He revealed that the promotional kiss was a creative decision made by the show's makers to generate buzz and interest in the new serial.
Bedi emphasized that the act was purely professional and part of their roles in 'Dhurandhar'. He expressed surprise at the magnitude of the public reaction, noting that such scenes are commonplace in global cinema and television. The actor urged the audience to view the clip within the context of the narrative being presented, rather than as a standalone moment.
Context of the Viral 'Dhurandhar' Promo
The controversial promo was released in December 2025 as part of the marketing campaign for the television show. It depicts an intimate moment between the characters played by Bedi and Arjun, which quickly became a hot topic online. Fans and critics alike were divided, with many commenting on the noticeable age gap between the two actors.
Sara Arjun, known for her work as a child artist and now transitioning to mature roles, found herself at the center of this unexpected storm. The promo was designed to highlight a pivotal and dramatic twist in the show's plotline, aiming to hook viewers before its premiere.
Public Reaction and Industry Implications
The public's response to the video was swift and polarized. Social media platforms were flooded with comments ranging from criticism of the pairing to defense of artistic expression. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about:
- Age dynamics in on-screen pairings in Indian television and film.
- The boundaries of promotional content and sensationalism.
- Audience reception to bold narrative choices in daily soaps.
Rakesh Bedi, in his response, maintained a dignified stance, focusing on the professional nature of the work. He highlighted the trust actors place in their directors and producers when executing such scenes. The controversy, while unexpected, has undoubtedly placed 'Dhurandhar' in the spotlight, generating significant pre-launch visibility. Whether this translates to viewership success remains to be seen, but the debate has certainly underscored the evolving and often unpredictable nature of audience engagement with television content.
