Mumbai: Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has reportedly issued a legal notice to the makers of the upcoming film Kala Hiran, alleging that the project unlawfully references him and infringes upon his personality rights.
According to reports, the legal notice seeks the immediate removal of promotional materials, including posters and marketing content associated with the film, which is said to be inspired by the controversial 1998 blackbuck poaching case involving the actor.
Legal Notice Targets Film Promotions
Kala Hiran, directed by Bharata Srinate and produced by Amit Jani, recently released promotional artwork featuring a man holding a gun and wearing a bracelet similar to the one often associated with Salman Khan.
The poster also announced the release of the film’s teaser on June 20, sparking widespread speculation that the movie draws inspiration from the actor’s long-running legal battle related to blackbuck hunting allegations.
Sources indicate that Salman Khan’s legal team has described the film’s promotional content as a “gross violation of personality rights” and has demanded corrective action from the filmmakers.
Producer Amit Jani Alleges Intimidation
Reacting to the legal notice, producer Amit Jani took to social media, alleging that the action was intended to intimidate those associated with the film.
In his post, Jani claimed that Salman Khan’s legal team was attempting to pressure the makers of Kala Hiran and discourage the project from moving forward. He also shared what he described as a screenshot of the legal notice.
At the time of publication, Salman Khan and his representatives had not publicly commented on the matter.
Background: The 1998 Blackbuck Poaching Case
The controversy surrounding Kala Hiran is linked to the highly publicized blackbuck poaching case that dates back to 1998.
Salman Khan, along with several co-stars, was accused of hunting endangered blackbucks near Jodhpur, Rajasthan, during the filming of Hum Saath Saath Hain. The case was initiated following complaints from members of the Bishnoi community.
Over the years, the case went through multiple legal proceedings. In 2018, a trial court sentenced Salman Khan to five years in prison, although he was later granted bail. Subsequent legal proceedings continued in higher courts.
Security Concerns and Bishnoi Gang Threats
The actor has also remained in the spotlight due to security concerns linked to alleged threats from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
In 2024, shots were fired outside Salman Khan’s residence in Mumbai, with police investigations reportedly linking the incident to the gang. Salman later addressed the threats publicly, stating that he places his faith in God and accepts whatever life has in store for him.
Film Faces Increased Scrutiny
The legal dispute is likely to draw additional attention to Kala Hiran, which its makers have described as being inspired by real-life legal battles. However, the controversy also raises broader questions about personality rights, creative freedom, and the depiction of real-life events in cinema.
As the matter unfolds, industry observers will be closely watching whether the filmmakers alter the film’s promotional strategy or challenge the legal notice.
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