MUMBAI: An upcoming Hindi film, Kala Hiran: The Battle For Legacy, has generated controversy ahead of its release, with media reports and online discussions drawing parallels between its storyline and the long-running blackbuck poaching case involving actor Salman Khan.
According to promotional material released by the filmmakers, the movie revisits an alleged blackbuck hunting incident in Rajasthan and the legal and public scrutiny that followed. While the makers have not formally stated that the film is based on Khan’s case, the first-look poster and storyline have prompted comparisons on social media.
The film’s teaser is scheduled to be released on June 20.
According to the makers, the project explores legal proceedings, media coverage and public reactions linked to a high-profile wildlife case. Promotional material also suggests the narrative may touch on issues related to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and the cultural significance of blackbucks to the Bishnoi community.
The film is directed by Bharat S. Shrinate and produced by Amit Jani. The full cast has not yet been announced.
Media reports have claimed that Khan’s legal representatives sent a notice to the filmmakers objecting to the project and seeking the removal of promotional content from social media platforms. The reports have not been independently verified.
In response, producer Amit Jani shared images on social media that he said were related to the legal communication and posted a statement criticising the reported move. Khan and his legal team have not publicly commented on the matter.
The controversy referenced by the film dates back to 1998, when Khan and several co-stars of the film Hum Saath-Saath Hain were accused of hunting blackbucks during a shoot in Rajasthan. In 2018, a court convicted Khan under the Wildlife Protection Act and sentenced him to five years in prison and a fine of ₹25,000. He was subsequently granted bail pending appeal.
Co-accused actors Saif Ali Khan, Tabu, Sonali Bendre and Neelam Kothari were acquitted after the court found insufficient evidence against them.
With legal questions, celebrity associations and ongoing public interest surrounding the subject, Kala Hiran: The Battle For Legacy has attracted attention ahead of its teaser launch, although the extent to which the film mirrors real-life events remains unclear.
