Salman Khan Defends Rajpal Yadav After Controversial Awards Show Backlash

By Radhika Sharma

Mumbai, 7th April 2026: Actor Salman Khan has publicly backed Rajpal Yadav after a remark made at a recent awards ceremony sparked controversy and divided opinion online.

The incident unfolded during an awards event in Mumbai, where a host made a comment referencing Yadav’s past legal troubles, specifically a ₹9 crore cheque bounce case. The remark, which included a quip about fluctuating dollar rates and repayment, drew laughter from some in the audience at the time but soon faced criticism on social media for being in poor taste. Many users argued that bringing up an individual’s financial and legal issues in a public forum crossed a line.

As the backlash gained momentum, Salman Khan stepped in with a message of support for Yadav. Highlighting the actor’s long-standing contribution to Indian cinema, Khan emphasised that a career spanning decades should not be reduced to personal financial struggles. He also expressed confidence that Yadav would continue to receive work, regardless of such setbacks, a statement that was widely shared and appreciated by fans online.

Rajpal Yadav, known for his roles in films like Hera Pheri and Bhool Bhulaiyaa, responded to the situation with composure. During the event itself, he maintained his calm and did not escalate the exchange. Later, he addressed the controversy by suggesting that the moment may have been misinterpreted and urged people not to target the host unnecessarily, signalling a measured and conciliatory stance.

The controversy is rooted in a long-running cheque bounce case involving approximately ₹9 crore. Earlier developments in the case had already kept the matter in public discussion, making it a sensitive subject. This context added to the criticism of the remark, with many questioning the boundaries of humour at high-profile industry events.

The episode has once again brought attention to the fine line between humour and insensitivity in award show scripts. While such events often rely on light-hearted banter, critics say that references to personal hardships, especially legal or financial, can come across as humiliating rather than entertaining. Salman Khan’s support for Rajpal Yadav, in this context, has been seen as a call for greater empathy within the film industry.