(Image Courtesy: Shekhar Suman/YouTube)
NEW DELHI: Actor Sanjay Dutt on Sunday clarified his recent comments made on Shekhar Suman’s talk show Shekhar Tonite, stating that the remarks were part of a scripted, light-hearted conversation and were never intended to hurt or offend anyone. The clarification came after clips from the Gandhi Jayanti special episode sparked online debate.
In a statement posted on X, Dutt wrote: “I would like to clarify that it was never my intention to hurt, offend, or disrespect the sentiments of any individual, community, or institution. My remarks were made in the context of a scripted conversation intended to be light-hearted and humorous. The spirit behind them was similar to the humour and satire seen in films like Munna Bhai, particularly the concept of ‘Gandhigiri,’ which was intended to convey a message of love, warmth, togetherness, and goodwill. Unfortunately, my words were interpreted outside of that intended context.”
What Sanjay Dutt Said on the Show
During the episode, which was released around Gandhi Jayanti, Dutt spoke about the current atmosphere in the country. “The people of this country are so lovely. There should be peace here. I can’t feel that peace in our country anymore. We Indians are large-hearted people and we are hospitable. We have given so much, and we should always remain that way. I pray to Shivji that those days come back soon,” he said.
Later in the conversation, when asked to imagine himself as the Prime Minister of India for five minutes, Dutt slipped into the mannerisms and language of his iconic character Munna Bhai from the Rajkumar Hirani films. In the satirical monologue, he joked that he would not go abroad to celebrate his new position, saying he would stay among the people so that a connection between the PM and the public could be maintained.
He also invoked Mahatma Gandhi’s three monkeys and suggested the need for a fourth monkey that would correct wrongdoing, and spoke about reducing the display of political leaders’ photographs in public spaces, preferring images of Gandhi instead.
The segment further included light-hearted references to US President Donald Trump, whom he called “Trump mamu,” and advocated “Gandhigiri” sending flowers and resolving issues over tea rather than threats or missiles.
The monologue was framed in the signature humorous style of the Munna Bhai films, which popularised the idea of solving problems through non-violence, love and goodwill.
However, portions of the conversation, particularly the remark about not feeling peace in the country and the imaginary PM address, were widely circulated and interpreted by some as political commentary, leading to online criticism and debate.
Dutt’s clarification emphasises that the entire exchange was scripted for entertainment and rooted in the satirical spirit of his popular films rather than any serious political statement.
Shekhar Tonite, hosted by actor Shekhar Suman, features conversations with celebrities. The Gandhi Jayanti special brought together themes of peace, Gandhi’s philosophy and Dutt’s well-known screen persona. The actor has previously spoken about the lasting impact of the Munna Bhai franchise and its message of “Gandhigiri.”
About the Author
