Akshay Kumar faces backlash for OMG 2 portrayal of Lord Shiva

Following the release of Akshay Kumar’s ‘OMG 2’, the Rashtriya Hindu Parishan Bharat has ignited controversy by offering rewards for anyone who confronts the actor with slaps or spitting, citing the actor’s portrayal of Lord Shiva as offensive to religious sentiments. In a demonstration of dissent, the organization set ablaze effigies of Akshay Kumar and the film’s posters in Agra, directly outside movie theaters.

Govind Parashar, the president of Rashtriya Hindu Parishan Bharat, expressed his displeasure with Akshay Kumar’s portrayal in the film, notably the character’s dreadlocks, boots, and actions in the narrative. He asserted that such a representation tarnishes the revered image of Lord Shiva. The group has amplified their objections by demanding that the censor board and central government impose a ban on the film.

Despite the contention, ‘OMG 2’ secured Rs 10.26 crore on its premiere day. It faces stiff competition from Sunny Deol’s ‘Gadar 2’, released concurrently, which outperformed with an impressive Rs 40 crore opening.

With a cast that includes notable actors like Pankaj Tripathi and Yami Gautam, ‘OMG 2’ has been a magnet for controversies, especially due to its plot centered on sex education in Indian schools. This theme led the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to assign the film an ‘Adults Only’ certificate. The narrative, crafted by director Amit Rai, revolves around Kanti Sharan Mudgal, a devout family man, portrayed by Pankaj Tripathi, who combats societal norms with Lord Shiva, played by Akshay Kumar, guiding him.

‘OMG 2’ is eagerly anticipated as the sequel to the 2012 smash hit ‘OMG- Oh My God!’ which witnessed Akshay Kumar alongside Paresh Rawal. The sequel, tinged with satire and drama, is a production by Cape of Good Films, Ashwin Varde, Vipul D Shah, and Rajesh Bahl, with Chandraprakash Diwedi helming creative production responsibilities.