While the whole of India awaits, with bated breath, the verdict of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid title suit, Bollywood personalities have joined the country in praying for peace and calm in the aftermath of the verdict.
Amitabh Bachchan urged people to remain united, “We remain one ! When we enter a cinema hall, or queue up for tickets, we never ask the religion or caste of person sitting next to us.”
Renowned singer Lata Mangeshkar sent out a message to all her followers on Twitter. “Allah tero naam, ishwar tero naam, sab ko sanmati de bhagwan,” she said, quoting lines from popular hymn.
Bollywood writer-lyricist and activist, Javed Akhtar called for peace appealing to the public’s sense of magnanimity, “You are the judge, you are the jury. Give us the verdict.”
Starlet Sonam Kapoor quoted a famous saying by the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. “The weak cannot forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of strong.”
Director Madhur Bhandarkar called for caution. “Let’s not mutilate 30\9\10 over 6\12\92. Religion is about peace and love. Let’s not make it about hate and violence.”
Acclaimed actor Anupam Kher shared an anecdote to make his point. “Father called from Shimla,” You know what is similar between Hindus and Muslims?” “You tell me Dad.” “The color of blood. It has no Religion.”
Actor Fardeen Khan added, “India greatest strength lies in its unity and today is a true test of that. Let’s confront the Ayodhya issue in the spirit of understanding, tolerance, love and respect. If we do achieve that then we will be able to look back and proudly say that yes India is truly shining – Jai Hind.”
Malayalee star Mammootty kept it brief: “India is one. Indians are one”.
Bollywood stars have been urging people to stay calm and not resort to violence ever since the Allahabad High Court has been on the verge of announcing of the Ayodhya-Babri Masjid.