Tanushree Dutta has come under fire from the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) over her reaction to the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar . AICWA has now hit back at her choice of words, accusing her of being insensitive at a time when the film industry is paying tribute to the veteran actor.
The actor posted a video on social media on Thursday in which she appeared to use the phrase “evil dead” while referring to the news.
Nana and Tanushree have a history that dates back to 2018, when the actor publicly accused the veteran actor of sexual harassment on the sets of the 2008 film Horn Ok Pleassss. A part of the caption of the AICWA post read, “To use such words for a person after his death goes against basic humanity. You are the first, and we pray you will be the last. People in this industry know what to say on such an occasion and when to stay silent. You should have kept a check on your tongue. AICWA also took issue with Dutta mentioning her upcoming professional commitments in the video. Do your work; nobody asked you. Whether your event is in Lucknow or London, whether you focus or not, nobody is interested. Her allegations became a major talking point during India’s #MeToo movement and brought renewed attention to concerns about harassment in the film industry.
The association argued that making such remarks following a person’s death went against “basic humanity” and called for greater sensitivity during a period of mourning. On a day when the country is mourning the loss of a stalwart, speaking about your own event and your own plans reflects a very small mindset,” AICWA said. Until today, no one in our film industry has made such a statement after someone’s passing. “You said that today is your work day, that you are going to Lucknow for a big event, and that your whole day is planned.
AICWA Founder and President Suresh Shyamlal Gupta issued a strongly worded statement criticising Dutta’s reaction. “I will give my reaction once I figure out what kind of reaction I should have.
The association said, “AICWA strongly condemns Tanushree Dutta’s ‘Evil Dead’ remark on the passing of legend Nana Patekar,” and accused her of using the moment for cheap publicity. In her Instagram video, Tanushree said she had heard the news about Nana but wanted to focus on an event in Lucknow. She also suggested that media attention could shift towards “evil dead” by the evening. So, definitely condolences to the family but…” she said before the clip cut off mid-sentence.
