Raj Thackeray Questions Vivek Oberoi and R Madhavan Over Living in Dubai
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray raised questions regarding actors Vivek Oberoi and R. Madhavan choosing to reside in Dubai while publicly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and highlighting India’s national development. Speaking at a Mumbai event organized by the party’s student wing, Thackeray addressed what he described as a growing trend of prominent personalities and business figures relocating overseas.
What Happened
Addressing an audience at a Maharashtra Navnirman Vidyarthi Sena gathering in Mumbai, Raj Thackeray expressed concern over influential figures moving abroad. He specifically pointed to actor Vivek Oberoi, who portrayed Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the 2019 biographical film, noting that Oberoi now lives in Dubai. Thackeray similarly questioned actor R. Madhavan’s decision to reside in Dubai, asking why individuals who express admiration for PM Modi and believe India is developing under his leadership choose to live in a foreign country with their families.
During his address, Thackeray alleged that such public figures return to India to participate in projects, including what he termed a government-sponsored film like Dhurandhar, before returning to Dubai. Previous public statements offer context regarding both actors’ moves: R. Madhavan had stated that he relocated to Dubai during the COVID-19 pandemic to support his son’s swimming career, while Vivek Oberoi indicated his move was to expand his business interests.
Thackeray also touched upon broader political discourse, including language used against the Prime Minister during Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) demonstrations at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. While agreeing with PM Modi’s remark that misguided youth should be forgiven and guided, Thackeray stated that the ruling party should also restrain its own supporters. He alleged that BJP troll teams target figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and members of the Thackeray family, causing many actors to avoid voicing public opinions. He added that while the NEET examination paper leak controversy may have triggered the CJP protests, the participation reflected broader grievances accumulated over time.
Key Highlights
- MNS leader Raj Thackeray questioned why celebrities praising India’s progress under PM Modi reside in Dubai.
- Thackeray named Vivek Oberoi and R. Madhavan during his speech at a student wing event in Mumbai.
- Madhavan previously cited his son’s swimming career as the reason for relocating during COVID-19, while Oberoi cited business expansion.
- Thackeray criticized political online trolling, alleging that troll groups target historical and contemporary figures.
- He remarked that public discontent surrounding the NEET paper leak contributed to recent demonstrations at Jantar Mantar.
Why This Matters
Thackeray’s remarks bring attention to the debate surrounding public figures who endorse domestic policies while maintaining primary residences abroad. Additionally, his comments on online trolling highlight concerns about how digital hostility impacts public discourse and deters artistic figures from expressing views.
What to Watch Next
It remains to be seen whether Vivek Oberoi, R. Madhavan, or political representatives will respond to the statements made during the MNS event.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Raj Thackeray question Vivek Oberoi and R. Madhavan?
Thackeray questioned why actors who publicly praise PM Narendra Modi and India’s development choose to live in Dubai with their families rather than residing in India.
What reasons did the actors previously give for moving to Dubai?
R. Madhavan previously explained his move was to support his son’s swimming career during the pandemic, while Vivek Oberoi stated his relocation was aimed at expanding his business interests.
What did Thackeray say regarding online trolling?
Thackeray stated that abusive language should not be used against anyone and alleged that online troll groups target various leaders, leading several actors to stop sharing public opinions.
Source: Based on statements delivered by Raj Thackeray at a Maharashtra Navnirman Vidyarthi Sena event in Mumbai, as reported by Bollywood Hungama.