Annu Kapoor Clarifies "7 Khoon Maaf" Kissing Scene Controversy with Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Cites Filial Bond
Mumbai, India – Veteran actor Annu Kapoor has once again addressed the long-standing controversy surrounding an intimate scene with global star Priyanka Chopra Jonas in Vishal Bhardwaj’s 2011 film, "7 Khoon Maaf." In a recent interview, Kapoor clarified that the narrative around the scene was "blown out of proportion" and suggested that the sensationalism may have been a calculated move for "PR."
The seasoned performer shed light on the uncomfortable situation that arose during the filming of "7 Khoon Maaf," emphasizing his pre-existing paternal relationship with Priyanka Chopra Jonas. "When I was working on ‘Aitraaz’ [2004], I used to address Priyanka as ‘beti’ (daughter). I would often meet her father, Ashok Chopra," Kapoor recounted. This established dynamic, he explained, made the proposition of an intimate scene particularly awkward for Priyanka.
Kapoor elaborated on the sequence of events: "Later, when Vishal Bhardwaj asked her to do an intimate scene with me for ‘7 Khoon Maaf,’ it was obvious she would feel uncomfortable. When I sensed that, I requested Vishal to cut the scene."
However, director Vishal Bhardwaj, known for his artistic integrity, was initially reluctant to alter the script. "Vishal said, ‘I have written the scene for a reason; I can’t remove it randomly.’" Kapoor recalled. The scene, it appears, was integral to the film’s narrative. Ultimately, Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s team conveyed her discomfort directly, leading to the scene’s modification.
The actor expressed his understanding and support for Priyanka’s decision, stating, "I didn’t make a fuss, but somehow, the matter spread like wildfire online." He underscored the personal discomfort he also felt due to his deep respect for Priyanka and her family. "I treated her like my daughter. It’s not necessary that I fulfill any lustful desires on set," he asserted, dismissing any untoward intentions.
Kapoor maintained that Priyanka had every right to refuse the scene, and he never held her decision against her. "It was her choice, and she did the right thing. I am too small a person for a star like Priyanka Chopra to even think about. I never held it against her," he said with a smile, adding in jest, "It would have been different if it were some better-looking hero, perhaps."
Reflecting on the media frenzy that ensued, Kapoor reiterated his belief that the entire episode was unnecessarily amplified. "The entire episode was blown out of proportion. Someone must have done it for publicity. Once you become a star, the decisions and dynamics around you change—that’s just how the industry works," he mused.
This incident wasn’t the first time Annu Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra Jonas shared screen space. Their professional association began with the 2004 romantic thriller "Aitraaz," where both actors received critical acclaim. Their reunion in "7 Khoon Maaf" saw Priyanka in a challenging role as Susanna, a woman who murders her seven husbands.
At the time of its release, Kapoor’s initial remarks regarding Priyanka’s refusal generated considerable media attention, creating what Priyanka herself, in an interview with Hindustan Times, dismissed as an "irritating and unnecessary" controversy. Kapoor’s recent clarification provides a nuanced perspective, highlighting the complexities of on-set dynamics and the human element behind the scenes in the bustling world of Indian cinema.
For further details on this story, you can read the original report here.
