Veteran Bollywood actor Naseeruddin Shah has voiced support for student protesters in India, criticizing the government’s response to demonstrations in New Delhi. Several other actors and filmmakers also expressed solidarity with the protesters, calling for dialogue and respect for the right to peaceful protest.
The reactions came after reports of police action against demonstrators in the Indian capital. Public figures including Shabana Azmi, Prakash Raj, Anurag Kashyap, Pooja Bhatt, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Preity Zinta, Sonu Sood, Dia Mirza, Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia Deshmukh, and Diljit Dosanjh shared statements supporting students or urging restraint.
Naseeruddin Shah Voices Support for Students
In a video message, Naseeruddin Shah said he stood with the protesting students and praised what he described as their courage. He also criticized the use of force against demonstrators and urged students not to lose hope.
His remarks add to a growing list of public figures commenting on the protests and the government’s handling of the demonstrations.
Bollywood Personalities Call for Dialogue
Actor Shabana Azmi joined protesters at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, saying that peaceful protest is a constitutional right and urging authorities to listen to students’ concerns.
Prakash Raj participated in the demonstration while holding a copy of the Indian Constitution, saying he would continue to support young people advocating for their future.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap criticized what he described as excessive use of force by police, while Pooja Bhatt condemned violence against protesters.
Calls for Peaceful Resolution
Several other celebrities also appealed for dialogue. Aditi Rao Hydari called for engagement with students beyond political differences, while Preity Zinta expressed support for social activist Sonam Wangchuk and urged both the government and protesters to begin meaningful talks.
Actors Sonu Sood, Riteish Deshmukh, and Genelia Deshmukh emphasized the importance of protecting young people’s right to express their views peacefully. Singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh also urged authorities to listen to students rather than suppress their voices.
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