An old video has once again brought actor Rakesh Bedi into the spotlight, this time for a controversy over the use of a word that is now considered inappropriate in India.
Rakesh Bedi, who has been receiving praise for his roles in Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar: The Revenge, recently issued a public apology after facing criticism. The issue started when Kailash Jaiswar, Mumbai State President of the Azad Samaj Party, shared an old video clip of the actor. In the clip, Rakesh Bedi had used the term “Harijan” which is officially prohibited and widely regarded as inappropriate.
Kailash Jaiswar not only raised objections publicly but also said that he personally contacted Rakesh Bedi and asked him to address the matter openly. Soon after, a video of the actor apologising began circulating on social media.
In his apology, Rakesh Bedi explained that he was unaware that the term is banned. He said that a few months ago, he had posted a video mentioning how B. R. Ambedkar worked for Dalits, backward communities, and what he referred to as “Harijans”. According to him, his intention was only to acknowledge B. R. Ambedkar’s efforts for social upliftment.
He further added that if his words hurt anyone or any community, he sincerely apologises. Rakesh Bedi stressed that he did not use the term knowingly or with any intent to offend.
Here is Rakesh Bedi’s video:
https://x.com/kailashJai_ASP/status/2040749307662598532
Click to watch this video directly on X
Earlier, Kailash Jaiswar had also shared a voice note on social media where he could be heard speaking to Rakesh Bedi over the phone. In that conversation, he explained why the term is considered inappropriate and requested a public apology. As per Kailash Jaiswar, Rakesh Bedi agreed during the call to apologise, which he has now done through the video message that is widely circulating online.
