New Delhi: Singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya, known for his iconic Bollywood hits, has stirred a fresh controversy with his recent comments on Mahatma Gandhi. In a recent interview, the Chalte Chalte crooner referred to Gandhi as the “Father of Pakistan,” asserting that he was mistakenly called the “Father of India.”
The statement quickly drew widespread criticism and legal repercussions. Many did not like it, leading Pune-based lawyer Asim Sarode to issue a legal notice to the singer. He demanded a public apology and threatened criminal prosecution if Abhijeet failed to comply. The notice further highlighted Gandhi’s unwavering stance against the partition.
He dedicated himself to fostering Hindu-Muslim unity and promoting the ideals of brotherhood. During the Independence movement, as the political landscape veered towards the division of India into two nations, Mahatma Gandhi firmly declared, “To accept partition, it will be over my dead body. So long as I am alive, I will never agree to the partition of India,” as stated in his legal notice.
“Mahatma Gandhi was the father of the nation for Pakistan, not India. India already existed, and Pakistan was carved out of it. He was responsible for the creation of Pakistan.” He compared Gandhi’s influence to legendary music composer RD Burman, saying, “RD Burman was the father of the nation in the world of music, bigger than Gandhi,” Abhijeet bluntly stated on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast.
Abhijeet Bhattacharya, 66 is known for songs like Chunnari Chunnari, Main Koi Aisa Geet Gaoon, Biwi No 1, Joru Ka Ghulam, Jhanjhariya, Tum Dil Ki Dhadkan, Tumhe Jo Main Dekha and Main Khiladi Tu Anari to count a few. He is no stranger to controversy. Recently, he alleged that Dua Lipa did not credit him for her Levitating x Woh Ladki Jo remix during her Mumbai performance.
