Kangana Ranaut Speaks Out on Sara Ali Khan's Sanatan Affidavit Controversy
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Mumbai, March 18 (NationPress) Actress and political figure Kangana Ranaut has addressed the ongoing debate regarding Sara Ali Khan's submission of an affidavit affirming her faith in Sanatan.
Kangana, speaking to reporters outside the Parliament on Wednesday, expressed that Sara should feel comfortable declaring her belief in Sanatan and that she can provide this in writing if she wishes to receive blessings at the Badrinath and Kedarnath temples.
Kangana stated, “Everyone present here is Sanatani. From the moment of our birth, 'Sanatan' signifies existence without a beginning or an end. Other religions date back only 1000-1500 years; only Sanatan embodies the ultimate truth. Sara is also a Sanatani. What’s stopping her from simply writing that she is a Sanatani and submitting the document?”
On Tuesday, Hemant Dwivedi, Chairman of the Badri-Kedar Temple Committee, informed the media that henceforth, all non-Hindus wishing to seek blessings at the temples must submit the affidavit. He clarified that proof of belief in Hinduism will be required from all non-Hindus.
He remarked, “If Sara Ali Khan shows her devotion to Sanatan Dharma and provides an affidavit, we will permit her to offer prayers.”
Sara Ali Khan has established a strong spiritual connection with the Kedarnath Temple, frequently visiting the shrine nestled in the Himalayas. Her association began during the shooting of ‘Kedarnath’ in 2017, marking her debut in Hindi cinema. She has since returned almost every year, typically during the temple's open season from April to November.
Her visits often involve trekking or helicopter travel to the high-altitude location, situated at approximately 3,583 meters. During these visits, she engages in standard temple rituals, including early morning darshan and offerings, without any formal role or ceremonial privileges. These trips are predominantly personal, not linked to film promotions or brand activities. Sara frequently shares highlights from her visits on social media, showcasing the temple set against snow-capped mountains and her participation in prayers.
The regularity of these visits has made Kedarnath a recurring theme in her public appearances outside of her films. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and serves as a major pilgrimage destination in India. Her repeated visits signify a continuous bond rather than a fleeting connection, linking her debut film location with her ongoing personal travel and spiritual practices.