The film Fighter, featuring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, is facing legal scrutiny as it has received a notice from Wing Commander Saumya Deep Das, an officer of the Indian Air Force (IAF). 

As reported by India TV and Hindustan Times, the notice revealed that the IAF uniform holds significant symbolism, representing a steadfast dedication to duty, national security, and selfless service, and is not merely a piece of clothing. The objection is specifically directed towards an intimate scene involving the lead actors.

The legal notice, titled “Legal Notice for Defamation, Insult, and Negative Impact on Indian Air Force and its Officers,” expresses concern over the inappropriate use of the Indian Air Force uniform in a scene depicting personal romantic involvement. It emphasised that the IAF uniform represents the highest ideals of sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering commitment to national protection. 

The notice contends that such portrayal misrepresents the inherent dignity of the uniform and diminishes the profound sacrifices made by numerous officers in service to the nation. ”It embodies the highest ideals of sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering dedication to protecting our nation,” said the report. “By utilizing this sacred symbol for a scene promoting personal romantic entanglements, the film grossly misrepresents its inherent dignity and devalues the profound sacrifices made by countless officers in service of our nation.”

Furthermore, the report stated, “Moreover, it normalises inappropriate behaviour in uniform, setting a dangerous precedent that undermines the moral and ethical standards expected from those entrusted with safeguarding our borders. Kissing in uniform, on a runway which comes under the purview of a technical area, while portrayed as romantic, is considered grossly inappropriate and unbecoming of an IAF officer, as it contradicts the high standards of discipline and decorum expected from them.”

This comes after Siddharth Anand’s offering crashed at the box office as Indian media labelled the film a flop a week after it hit the screens. As per Pinkvilla, the movie received a positive reception, emerging as the leader in global box office rankings during its initial weekend, surpassing even Hollywood productions in its home country.  Despite the promising start and positive buzz, Anand faced a significant downturn at the box office.

As for Roshan, Fighter is now on its course to be his second flop in a row after the failure of Vikram Vedha in 2022. Much to Padukone’s fans’ dismay, this will bring an end to the star’s successful streak at the box office, which commenced with Pathaan last year, and mark a significant setback for director Anand, experiencing his first flop in his 19-year career as a director.

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