Raj Thackeray divides Bollywood on "Marathi Manoos" issue

--By Sagar Satapathy, Editor-in-Chief

Gag orders or no gag orders, controversial MNS Chief Raj Thackeray, yet again managed to divide people on the "Marathi Manoos" issue, and this time he played the trick with Bollywood. Bollywood actors Nana Patekar, Salman Khan, Sohail Khan and Sajid Khan endorsed Raj Thackeray's signature campaign to justify his action against the North Indians in Mumbai. Even Salaman Khan's father Salim Khan and well-known director Sajad Nadiadwala signed the letter.

Nana Patekar and Salman must remember that if they are stars today, it is due to their fans across the country, including UP and Bihar. It's not that they earn their living only because of Marathi people. It's ironical that Nana Patekar, who always talked about national integrity and communal harmony in reel life, acted such an irresponsible manner. It is also disgusting to see Salman Khan supporting such a person, who has been playing divisive politics in Maharashtra. His fans never expected this from him.

It is a great solace that top actors like Aamir Khan and Shahrukh Khan do not endorse Raj's views and talk about social harmony and peace. In India, people look to Bollywood stars and cricketers as their idols. There are many people who blindly follow their idols. In such circumstances, it is essential for our stars not to create any controversy by switching sides with such opportunistic politicians. It will lead to further divide in the society, which should be prevented at any cost.