Mumbai: Superstar Akshay Kumar, who is known for pulling off multiple projects in a quick time, on Saturday announced a new project ‘Oh My God 2’. The actor shared the first poster of the film on Instagram in which he can be seen donning Lord Shiva’s avatar.
‘Rakh vishwas, tu hai shiv ka das’ written on the poster. Sharing the poster Akshay Kumar wrote, “’Karta kare na kar sake shiv kare so hoye’. Need your blessings and wishes for #OMG2, our honest and humble attempt to reflect on an important social issue. May the eternal energy of Adiyogi bless us through this journey. Har Har Mahadev.”
Oh My God 2 poster
Akshay Kumar receives criticism
The poster and movie are not going well with many. While several of his fans are excited about the project, the announcement has irked a section of netizens who are alleging that the poster is hurting their religious sentiments.
It is to be noted that the first instalment of the movie which was released in 2012 too was under controversial soup given the threats and accusations by many people who alleged that the film has several dialogues and scenes which are objectionable and hurt the sentiments of Hindus. Akshay played the role of Lord Krishna in OMG 1.
It was also alleged that the dialogues have been spoken against the gods and goddesses of the Hindu religion.
However, OMG starring Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal in the lead roles managed to release and earned decent numbers at the box office.
#BoycottOMG2 trends
Now, many social media users are accusing Akshay Kumar of hurting their religious sentiments by playing Lord Shiva. #BoycottOMG2 has been trending on Twitter. One user wrote, “We should discourage this culture of making fun of Hindu gods. Therefore with due respect to my religion and faith, I want to call out for #boycottOMG2.”
Another wrote, “How can be a Canadian citizen portrayed as Lord shiva. My sentiments are hurt. #boycottOMG2.”
Directed by Amit Rai, OMG 2 also stars Yami Gautam and Pankaj Tripathi. The shooting for the social comedy film reportedly went on floor in September in Mumbai. Pankaj Tripathi began shooting for his portion of the movie and was to be joined by Akshay in October.