In a recent social media exchange, veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah declared himself a 'dimagi naxal' in a video posted on his Facebook account. Shah's statement comes amidst a backdrop of political tension, where he expressed pride in the label, which he claims has been used against him and others like him, including terms such as 'anti-national' and 'tukde tukde gang'. This bold assertion has sparked significant reactions across the political spectrum, particularly from Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.

Kiren Rijiju, the Cabinet Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, took to X to respond to Shah's video. In his tweet, Rijiju expressed his initial admiration for the actor, stating, "I used to respect and like Naseeruddin Shah, thinking he was just an ordinary actor." However, his tone shifted as he characterized Shah's declaration as a break from character, implying a disillusionment with the actor's public persona following the video.S1S2

The exchange highlights the ongoing cultural and political discourse in India, where artists and public figures often find themselves at the intersection of art and activism. Shah's self-identification as a 'dimagi naxal' reflects a growing trend among some intellectuals and artists who embrace labels that challenge mainstream narratives. As this dialogue unfolds, it raises questions about the role of public figures in political discourse and the implications of their statements on societal perceptions.S1S2