Businessman Raj Kundra, who is married to Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty, discussed what happened after he was arrested in 2021 on charges of producing and distributing pornographic films. Even after receiving bail, Kundra disclosed that he is still called the “porn king” and is waiting to be fully cleared. The impact of the incident on his marriage, Shilpa’s career, and their son Viaan is clarified in the interview.
While acknowledging that being married to a celebrity exacerbated the problem, Kundra hinted that the public criticism and anger might not have been as intense if he hadn’t been linked to the Dhadkan actress. He noted that his wife and kids appeared to be the target of the majority of the backlash, which infuriated him over the apparent collateral harm.
“It all happened as a result of my famous marriage. I doubt that half of this damage would have occurred if I hadn’t been. They seemed to be aiming more at my wife and children than at me. Shilpa was unfairly made to take the brunt of it. Kundra said, “You attack me, no issues, she was collateral damage.”
Even after being granted bail, Kundra continues to be referred to as the “porn king.” He disclosed that Shilpa continues to be the target of internet abuse, with remarks referring to her as the “porn king’s wife.” Kundra expressed his disinterest in internet criticism while noting the trolls’ ignorance of the ongoing legal process and stressing his worry for Shilpa and their children.
“I don’t mind, but I don’t want my kids and wife to read terms like this.” Even now, when Shilpa shares a Valentine’s Day greeting, trolls remark, “porn king’s wife,” despite the fact that they are ignorant of the situation! Kundra clarified, “They are not even allowing the legal system to declare whether or not I am guilty.
Regarding Shilpa’s profession
Speaking about how the Baazigar actor’s imprisonment affected her business, Kundra disclosed that she experienced problems in her career, losing TV roles and contracts. The actor was forced to maintain a particular standard of silence and dignity, he claimed, because of public perception, and it was unfair that she had to suffer these repercussions.
He admitted, “It was awful.” Fortunately, though, we are very acquainted. I would know just how much to believe if someone told me something about her. When she learned about the case, she burst out laughing and refuted the information. You would be aware if there was anything like porn involved if you were living together at home.
Kundra went on, “We both made ourselves. Even though she realized it was nonsense, she remained silent and composed. She had to live up to a certain public perception. She unfortunately suffered the most from my involvement, losing jobs on television and several contracts. That struck me as being incredibly unfair.
Parenting difficulties
The impact on their 10-year-old son Viaan, who was present when the controversy broke, was also discussed in the interview. According to Kundra, Shilpa protected Viaan from bad press and told him not to look up his father’s name online. Despite the difficulties, their son persevered and showed Kundra his support through letters and paintings he sent while he was incarcerated.
According to the businessman’s account, “Shilpa told Viaan that his father had hundreds of questions to answer when he questioned what was going on. Upon doing so, he will return. Viaan was ten years old. Shilpa told someone at his school what parents were telling their kids, god knows what. He is a really strong child. In jail, he would sketch something and mail it to me along with a letter. “Papa missing you, come back soon, finish your work,” he would write.
Speaking of his close relationship with his son, Kundra remarked, “I am Viaan’s hero. Viaan understood that since his father owned the business, I could do no wrong. It feels to him like a bad dream.
Kundra is focused on starting over and is hopeful about the future despite the difficult conditions. He emphasized the necessity for the legal system to render a just decision and conveyed his appreciation for his family’s constant support throughout these difficult times.
From the real world to the big screen
Following his 63-day incarceration at Arthur Road jail in 2021 due to the pornographic case, the entrepreneur went on to star in UT 69. The humorous biographical drama, directed by Shahnawaz Ali, opened on November 3 to a lackluster reception. It was hailed as an engrossing exploration of the happenings inside the prison walls.
At first, Kundra was thinking of writing a story about his imprisonment, but she soon realized the story was becoming more like a movie. He revealed the unexpected development of the project in an interview with ANI, saying, “I was writing a book while I was on this 63-day journey inside the jail; there was no plan for a film.” My friend and director took all of my notes.
A month later, Kundra received a proposal from the filmmaker to turn the compelling story into a movie. The choice to have the man play the lead came with a requirement that he do the part himself. “I think that becoming an actor has nothing to do with the experiences you have in life. Your experiences can help you grow in any area, including business and employment, according to Kundra.
By providing a sarcastic commentary on the challenges faced by prisoners, the movie aimed to provide a glimpse into the harsh realities of life behind bars. Kundra alluded to the absence of regret in the prison system, where inmates struggle to get by on basic needs like food and sleep. In order to break the cycle of incarceration without reform, he emphasized the significance of having rehabilitation centers.
There is no regret in it because people are battling inside to eat and sleep. When they are released from prison and there is no reform, these individuals will simply go home and cry, he thought. They will come and chat among themselves.
I am a dedicated student currently in my seventh semester, pursuing a degree in International Relations. Alongside my academic pursuits, I am actively engaged in the professional field as a content writer at the Rangeinn website.