Paresh Rawal Shows Respect for Colleagues’ Political Views

In a candid interview, Paresh Rawal, the celebrated actor and former Member of Parliament under the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), opened up about his stance on criticism from fellow celebrities, particularly Naseeruddin Shah, Aamir Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan. Despite his political ties, Rawal expressed his respect for these actors, emphasizing that their criticism of the government is not driven by any “hidden agenda.”

Rawal acknowledged that he would not disregard the opinions of these iconic actors, stating that their views are often motivated by a genuine concern for the well-being of the nation. “If Naseer bhai, Aamir, or Shah Rukh have something to say, I can’t discard that. I’ll listen to them because they have no hidden agenda, they have no axe to grind. They’re saying it for my own benefit. So I’ll listen, introspect, and try to improve,” said Rawal. He further added that their opinions don’t affect his respect for them, as they share a mutual bond of love and admiration.

Paresh Rawal Lauds Naseeruddin Shah’s Candidness

During the interview with The Lallantop, Rawal also spoke highly of his long-time colleague Naseeruddin Shah, praising him for his ability to speak his mind without fear. “Naseer bhai is one of the few in the Hindi film industry who says whatever is in his heart. You feel very safe and satisfied around people like these. Otherwise, you can’t keep looking over your shoulder again and again,” he said.

Rawal’s admiration for Shah goes beyond just professional respect; he considers the veteran actor an idol. Their enduring friendship and professional collaboration have stood the test of time, even when political beliefs differ. In fact, Paresh Rawal directed Naseeruddin Shah in the stage play The Sleuth and later appeared in Shah’s directorial debut, Yun Hota Toh Kya Hota (2006). Additionally, the two actors shared screen space in the 1993 film Sir, which remains a standout in their careers.

Naseeruddin, Aamir, and Shah Rukh’s Political Stance

Naseeruddin Shah has long been a vocal critic of the BJP-led government, particularly with regard to issues of religious discrimination. Despite their differing political ideologies, Rawal maintains a cordial relationship with Shah, highlighting how interpersonal relationships should not be tainted by politics.

Aamir Khan has also been a vocal critic of the government, especially concerning religious intolerance. In 2015, Khan famously shared his concerns about the safety of his family in India, particularly for his son Azad, expressing thoughts of leaving the country due to the growing atmosphere of intolerance. Despite their differing views, Paresh Rawal has worked alongside Aamir Khan in iconic films such as Andaz Apna Apna (1994) and Akele Hum Akele Tum (1995), maintaining a professional respect for Khan’s craft and views.

Shah Rukh Khan, like his peers, has often spoken about issues related to religious intolerance and the growing divide in the country. Rawal, however, remains undeterred by these political stances, believing that the actors are expressing their opinions out of a sense of responsibility, not malice.