Actor Nora Fatehi appeared before the National Commission for Women (NCW) on Thursday after being summoned over the alleged indecent portrayal of women in the film song Sarke Chunar. Addressing the controversy, Nora clarified that she never intended to hurt sentiments, saying she was “put in that situation”. The actor also issued an apology over the matter.
Nora Fatehi apologises
On Thursday, Nora appeared before the Commission in Delhi in connection with the controversy. Earlier, the actor had distanced herself from the Hindi version of the song, claiming that she had only shot for the Kannada version and that her consent was not sought before it was adapted into Hindi.
Following her appearance before the Commission, Nora addressed the media stationed outside and revealed that she had submitted a written apology. The actor added that she understands the responsibility that comes with being a public figure and artist.
“I did (appear before the Commission) and I apologised. It was just a situation that I was put in, and there was no intention to offend anybody, but of course, I have to be responsible as an artist. I definitely apologised, we have done everything in writing,” Nora is heard saying in the video.
Nora also shared that, as a corrective step, she has decided to sponsor the education of orphaned girls.
“They have been so kind and helpful. It’s really important for us to give back to society. So, I decided that we should sponsor a few orphan girls, their education, so that is the goal after this matter,” she added.
Last month, actor Sanjay Dutt also appeared before the NCW in connection with the controversy over the song from the film KD The Devil and submitted a written apology, expressing regret for any “unintended” harm caused to society. As a corrective measure, Sanjay Dutt committed to sponsoring the education of 50 tribal girl children as part of efforts towards social welfare and women’s empowerment.
Earlier, Nora Fatehi had failed to appear before the Commission, stating that she was abroad and had sought a fresh date for the hearing. When Dutt appeared before the Commission led by NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, the rights panel had, during the hearing, raised concerns over alleged vulgarity and indecent representation of women in the song, questioning issues of intent, awareness and accountability.
About the Sarke Chunar row
The Hindi version of the song, released on March 15 on YouTube, had triggered public outrage over its allegedly sexually explicit lyrics. The song features Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt. Following the backlash, the makers removed the Hindi version from YouTube, though it continued to circulate across platforms. The lyricist, singer and director had also issued apologies.
The original Kannada version is penned by the movie’s director, Prem, while its Hindi version is credited to Raqeeb Alam, who has distanced himself from the track in the wake of the controversy.
After the stir, Nora Fatehi had issued a clarification through a post on Instagram, saying she shot the song in Kannada, a language she doesn’t understand, and was shocked to learn about the lyrics of the Hindi version, like everyone else. The song has faced criticism from several public figures, including actor-politicians Ravi Kishan and Kangana Ranaut, as well as singer Armaan Malik.