Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan’s book, Pregnancy Bible, has recently come under scrutiny as a petition has been filed against it in the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The petition, submitted by a man named Christopher Anthony, raises concerns over the use of the word “Bible” in the title, which he claims has hurt the religious sentiments of the Christian community. This case has sparked a legal battle, with Anthony demanding a ban on the book’s sale and calling for legal action against Kareena Kapoor under sections 295 and 96 of the Indian Penal Code.
Kareena Kapoor’s Response to the Allegations
In response to the petition, Kareena Kapoor has defended her book, stating that her intention was never to offend any religious community. Instead, she aimed to share her personal experiences of pregnancy and offer guidance to women going through similar journeys. Kareena’s lawyer, Nikhil Bhatt, further clarified that the title Pregnancy Bible was chosen to signify that the book is a comprehensive guide on pregnancy, likening it to a “complete document” for expecting mothers. The defense also suggested that the petition may have been filed for publicity purposes.
High Court’s Stance and Next Steps
The Madhya Pradesh High Court, led by Justice Maninder Singh Bhatti, has acknowledged the concerns raised by the petitioner but emphasized the need to respect Kareena Kapoor’s rights as well. The court has scheduled the next hearing for September 10, during which all parties involved will have the opportunity to present their arguments. The court’s decision will likely weigh both the sentiments of the Christian community and Kareena Kapoor’s freedom of expression as an author.
Background of the Controversy
Kareena Kapoor Khan launched her book, Pregnancy Bible, in 2021 following the birth of her younger son, Jahangir Ali Khan. The book, which Kareena has often referred to as her “third child,” offers insights into her experiences during pregnancy and aims to provide valuable advice to other women. However, the title’s use of the word “Bible” has drawn criticism from some quarters, leading to the current legal challenge.
Impact on Kareena Kapoor’s Career
Despite the ongoing controversy, Kareena Kapoor’s professional life remains active. Earlier this year, she appeared in the film The Crew, alongside Tabu and Kriti Sanon. The movie received a positive response from audiences and performed well at the box office. Looking ahead, Kareena is set to star in Rohit Shetty’s highly anticipated Singham Again, the third installment in the popular Singham franchise. The film, which also features Ajay Devgn, is slated for release in December 2023.
Public and Legal Reactions
The case against Kareena Kapoor’s Pregnancy Bible has garnered significant attention, with opinions divided on the matter. While some believe that the title is a harmless metaphor, others argue that it could be seen as disrespectful to religious texts. The outcome of the legal proceedings will be closely watched, as it may set a precedent for how religious sentiments and creative expression are balanced in India.
As the court date approaches, the controversy surrounding Kareena Kapoor’s book continues to unfold, with many eager to see how the legal system will address this complex issue.
