The movie ‘Fighter’, directed by Siddharth Anand and starring Deepika Padukone and Hrithik Roshan in prominent roles, has become embroiled in legal controversy due to a specific kissing scene involving the main characters. The scene, which occurs between Deepika Padukone’s character, Squadron Leader Mini Rathore, and Hrithik Roshan’s character, Squadron Leader Shamsher Pathania, serves as a pivotal moment in the film’s climax. However, it has drawn criticism for its portrayal of the kiss taking place while the characters are in Air Force uniforms.
An Indian Air Force officer has issued a legal notice to the production team, alleging that the depiction of the kiss, especially in military attire, shows disrespect towards the valor and dignity associated with the uniform. This criticism is further intensified by the characters being depicted as part of an elite Indian Air Force team, adding fuel to the controversy surrounding the film.
‘Fighter’ garnered attention from the moment of its announcement, being hailed as India’s first aerial-action film. It features Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone as members of an elite fighter pilots’ group within the Indian Air Force, marking their first collaboration. Despite receiving praise for their on-screen chemistry, the film failed to meet the lofty expectations at the box office. While it initially grossed Rs 178 crore in India within 12 days of release, its box office performance steadily declined thereafter.
Apart from Deepika Padukone and Hrithik Roshan, the film also stars Anil Kapoor, Karan Singh Grover, and Akshay Oberoi. Written by Siddharth Anand, in collaboration with Ramon Chibb, ‘Fighter’ was produced by Viacom 18 Studios and Marflix Pictures. Additionally, it serves as the inaugural installment in a planned aerial action franchise.