Veteran Bollywood actor Anupam Kher on 14 July broke his silence over the controversy surrounding his comments on the reported theft at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, asserting that he stood by every word and that his remarks had been deliberately distorted to fuel a controversy. The actor shared a late-night video on X (formerly Twitter), addressing the backlash head-on.

What Anupam Kher Said

In the video, Kher stated that his original comments on the alleged fund irregularity at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir were made with 'complete honesty and responsibility.' He alleged that certain groups formed an 'ecosystem' to target him after his remarks did not align with their agenda. 'When you are telling the truth, you don't have to remember it. Everyone else has to make it,' he said in Hindi, adding a defiant 'Jai Shri Ram' at the close.

Kher also addressed an old video of fellow veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah — reportedly from six years ago — that was recirculated on social media, in which Shah had called Kher a 'fake and a sycophant.' Kher clarified that the two share mutual respect and have embraced each other in person, suggesting the video's revival was a deliberate attempt to embarrass him.

The Original Controversy

The dispute traces back to Kher's visit to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, during which he commented on reports of a theft involving an alleged ₹2–7 crore fund irregularity linked to donations at the temple. Kher had reportedly described the alleged irregularity as a 'minor' issue, drawing a comparison to the looting and destruction carried out during the Mughal era. The remarks triggered a sharp online backlash, with critics accusing him of downplaying the incident, while supporters argued his words were taken out of context.

Kher's Defiance and Appeal

In his X post caption — written in Hindi — Kher stated: 'People fear the truth the most when it doesn't fit their agenda.' He went further, saying he has never been afraid of trolls, so-called influencers, or politicians, and that no amount of noise would alter his position. 'Speaking the truth is both my right and my duty,' he wrote, signing off with an affirmation that he would remain 'exactly who I am.'

Kher also mentioned he is currently filming a project in Ayodhya, describing the city as one where 'every street, every corner, every house is blessing you.'

Broader Context

The episode reflects a recurring pattern in which public figures' comments on sensitive religious or political subjects trigger rapid social media mobilisation — often involving the resurfacing of old videos or statements to reframe the narrative. Notably, the Ram Mandir remains a deeply charged symbol in Indian public life following the 500-year legal and political journey that culminated in its consecration. Any commentary touching on its administration carries outsized political weight, regardless of intent.

As the debate continues online, Kher's video appears to have drawn both renewed support and criticism, with the actor signalling he has no intention of walking back his position.