Shilpa Shetty, the celebrated Bollywood actress and entrepreneur, has had her life and career marked by several controversies that have garnered public attention over the years. These controversies have tested her resilience and grace under pressure, and they remain significant moments in her journey. Let’s delve into these controversies with more depth and detail:
- Celebrity Big Brother racism controversy (2007): During her participation in the UK’s Celebrity Big Brother reality show in 2007, Shilpa Shetty faced a barrage of racist comments and bullying from some of her fellow housemates. This shocking behavior ignited international outrage. Shetty’s dignified response, characterized by composure and grace, earned her widespread sympathy and support. The incident led to extensive media coverage and sparked crucial conversations about racism in the media and society at large. Shilpa Shetty emerged from this controversy as a symbol of strength and resilience.
- IPL spot-fixing scandal (2013): Shilpa Shetty’s husband, Raj Kundra, found himself embroiled in a controversy related to the Indian Premier League (IPL) spot-fixing scandal in 2013. He faced allegations of illegal betting and involvement in manipulating cricket matches during his tenure as co-owner of the Rajasthan Royals team. Raj Kundra admitted to placing bets but vehemently denied any involvement in match-fixing. This controversy subjected both Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra to intense scrutiny and criticism, affecting their personal and professional lives.
- The Arms Act case (2015): In 2015, Shilpa Shetty was entangled in a legal case related to a firearms violation. A case was filed against her, alleging that she had purchased a weapon illegally. However, the court later quashed the case, ruling that Shilpa had not violated any laws. This episode underscored the legal challenges that public figures like Shilpa can face.
- Husband’s alleged involvement in pornography case (2021): In July 2021, Raj Kundra, Shilpa Shetty’s husband, was arrested by the Mumbai Police in connection with a case involving the production and distribution of adult content. He faced charges related to pornography and sections of the Indian Penal Code. While Shilpa Shetty faced media scrutiny and was questioned in relation to the case, no direct involvement on her part was established. The case remains ongoing, and its outcome will determine the legal implications for Raj Kundra.
- PETA ad controversy (2006): Shilpa Shetty’s involvement in an advertisement for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) in 2006 stirred controversy. The ad featured her wearing a dress made of leaves with the tagline “I’d Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur.” Some individuals criticized Shilpa for promoting nudity and disrespecting Indian culture. However, she defended her participation in the campaign, emphasizing that it was for a noble cause, namely advocating for ethical treatment of animals.
- Cultural appropriation controversy (2007): During her time on Celebrity Big Brother, Shilpa Shetty faced criticism for allegedly appropriating Indian culture. Some viewers accused her of adopting a British accent and trying to distance herself from her Indian heritage. However, others defended her, stating that she was adapting to her environment and should not be judged solely based on her accent. This controversy raised discussions about identity and cultural nuances in a multicultural world.
- Controversy over her weight loss claims (2008): Shilpa Shetty faced criticism for her weight loss claims related to her fitness DVD titled “Shilpa’s Yoga.” Some people accused her of promoting unrealistic expectations and unhealthy practices. However, she clarified that her DVD was intended as a guide for fitness and well-being and encouraged a balanced approach to health. This controversy highlighted the challenges of promoting health and fitness in the public eye.
- Ownership of Rajasthan Royals in IPL (2009): Shilpa Shetty and her husband Raj Kundra faced controversy over their ownership of the Rajasthan Royals team in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Questions were raised about the source of funds used to acquire the team, and allegations of financial irregularities were made. However, no substantial evidence was found to support the claims, and the team continued to participate in the IPL. This controversy underscored the scrutiny that celebrities and public figures face in their business endeavors.
- Faux pas during the AIDS awareness event (2004): Shilpa Shetty was invited as a guest for an AIDS awareness event in Mumbai. During the event, she unintentionally made a remark that was perceived as insensitive. When asked about the increasing number of people affected by AIDS, she responded, “I think it is very sad that only because of the virus, people are dying.” Her comment received criticism as it seemed to trivialize the severity of the AIDS epidemic. This incident highlighted the importance of sensitivity and awareness in public statements.
- Animal cruelty allegations during reality show (2009): Shilpa Shetty was a judge on a reality show called “Zara Nachke Dikha.” During one episode, a stunt involving a horse was performed, which led to accusations of animal cruelty. Animal rights activists criticized Shilpa Shetty for her involvement in the segment and for not speaking out against the mistreatment of animals on the show. However, Shilpa Shetty defended herself by stating that she was not aware of the specifics of the stunt and did not support any form of animal cruelty. This controversy shed light on the responsibilities of public figures in advocating for ethical treatment of animals.
- Legal issues with a spa chain (2015): Shilpa Shetty faced legal troubles related to a spa chain named ‘Iosis.’ She was one of the directors of the company, and a case was filed against her and other directors for allegedly not paying dues to a vendor. The case went to court, and Shilpa Shetty was eventually discharged from the case by the Bombay High Court in 2018. This legal tussle highlighted the complexities of celebrity endorsements and business ventures.
- Allegations of endorsing a weight loss pill (2019): Shilpa Shetty faced criticism for her association with a weight loss pill called ‘Quick Heal.’ It was alleged that she endorsed the product without proper scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. The controversy led to discussions about the responsibility of celebrities when endorsing health-related products. It underscored the need for transparency and diligence in celebrity endorsements in the wellness industry.
- Richard Gere Kissing Controversy (2007) –Â During the event, Richard Gere, in a playful manner, hugged and kissed Shilpa Shetty on the cheek multiple times. The intention behind the gesture was purely friendly, and there was no intent to cause any offense. However, this seemingly innocuous act ignited controversy in conservative segments of Indian society, where public displays of affection are often considered culturally inappropriate.
In the aftermath of the incident, a complaint was filed against both Richard Gere and Shilpa Shetty, accusing them of obscenity. Protests erupted in various parts of India, and effigies of the actors were burned by some demonstrators. The controversy swiftly garnered widespread media attention and became a subject of heated debate across the country.
Shilpa Shetty came to the defense of herself and Richard Gere, asserting that the incident had been blown out of proportion and that no offense had been intended. She emphasized that the act was part of the event’s program and should not be misconstrued. Eventually, the charges against both Shilpa Shetty and Richard Gere were dropped by the Indian court, which cited that no laws had been violated. This controversy served as a reminder of the cultural sensitivities that can surround public events and the importance of understanding local norms and customs when participating in international initiatives.
- The Temple Kiss Controversy (2009): In 2009, Shilpa Shetty found herself in the midst of a controversy during her visit to the Sakhigopal temple. During the visit, a priest at the temple kissed Shilpa Shetty on the cheeks, and a photograph of this gesture quickly went viral, drawing widespread attention.
Shilpa Shetty responded to the incident by raising a thought-provoking question: Why should it be considered inappropriate for a father figure, such as a priest, to express affection through a kiss? She suggested that the act should be viewed within the context of familial affection rather than being misconstrued as a controversial gesture. Shilpa’s perspective prompted discussions about cultural norms and interpretations of physical affection.
- Controversy with Raj Kundra’s Ex-Wife, Kavita Kundra: Shilpa Shetty has faced a series of controversies related to allegations made by Raj Kundra’s ex-wife, Kavita Kundra. These allegations have garnered significant media attention and have included the following claims:
- Breaking up Kavita and Raj’s marriage: Kavita Kundra has asserted that Shilpa Shetty was the catalyst behind the breakdown of her marriage with Raj Kundra. According to Kavita, Raj Kundra initiated an affair with Shilpa while he was still married to her.
- Financial disputes: Kavita Kundra has alleged that Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra owe her money. She has claimed that Raj Kundra did not meet his financial obligations towards her and their children following their separation.
- Child custody issues: Kavita Kundra has raised concerns about child custody and access to her children. She has alleged that Shilpa Shetty has interfered in her relationship with the children, limiting her visitation rights.
These controversies have not only drawn public attention but have also underscored the complexities surrounding personal relationships and the legal disputes that can arise from them.
- The Non-Bailable Warrant (2006): In 2006, Shilpa Shetty faced a legal issue when a non-bailable warrant was issued against her by the Madurai court. The warrant was related to a photoshoot in which she had posed in a bold or provocative manner. Specific details about the photoshoot or the nature of the warrant are not provided, but it indicates that Shilpa Shetty faced legal consequences due to the content or style of the photoshoot.
- Iosis Wellness Centre and Spa Scam Allegations: Shilpa Shetty is associated with a chain of wellness centers called Iosis Wellness Centre and Spa. However, there have been reports alleging a scam related to the franchise of these centers. According to the reports, Shilpa Shetty and her mother were accused of taking a significant amount of money from two individuals with the promise of awarding them the franchise and assisting in opening a branch. However, it was claimed that these promises were not fulfilled, leading to a case of cheating being filed in Uttar Pradesh. Following this, Shilpa’s business partner, Kiran Bawa, took to social media to announce that Shilpa Shetty and her mother were no longer associated with the company.
- Statements in the Raj Kundra Pornography Case (2021): In the midst of the ongoing Raj Kundra pornography case, actress Sherlyn Chopra reportedly provided her statement to the Mumbai Police. She alleged that the income generated from the Sherlyn Chopra app was supposed to be shared equally between her and Arms Prime Pvt Ltd, which was connected to Raj Kundra. However, she claimed to have never received her share of the earnings. Shilpa Shetty also reportedly gave her statement, stating that she was unaware of her husband’s activities as she was occupied with her own work. These statements added another layer of complexity to the ongoing legal proceedings in the case. Sherlyn expressed her thoughts on social media, emphasizing the need to understand the truth behind these statements.
