Indian comedian and television actor Kiku Sharda has been arrested for imitating self-styled spiritual leader Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, famous for his films and rock music videos, and hurting the religious sentiments of his followers.
Sharda was arrested in Mumbai by police from the north Indian state of Haryana, where Singh's quasi-religious organisation Dera Sacha Sauda commands a huge following. Singh had filed a case against Sharda after he mimicked him in an episode of the popular television show Comedy Nights with Kapil in late December. Sharda had posted photographs of himself dressed as Singh, but later tweeted an apology.
Interesting day ..... My profession allows me to be different people . Love it. pic.twitter.com/11Gur4Wihz— kiku sharda (@kikusharda) December 12, 2015
"I am an artist who is given a role, a getup and told what to do. I've already apologised. I didn't want to hury anyone's sentiments. I was just following the script," Sharda, who's been sent for 14 days of judicial custody, said after his arrest.
Singh's Dera Sacha Sauda describes itself as a "social welfare and spiritual" organisation and claims to have around 50 million followers. The 48-year-old has starred in two controversial films in the MSG: The Messenger series, which released last year after facing considerable opposition from India's censor board on grounds of promoting superstition. Known for his flashy appearances with colourful clothes, jewellery and motorcyles, Singh has also appeared in numerous rock music videos and holds regular concerts.
Singh himself has been charged with hurting the sentiments of the Sikh community in India, after he appeared in an attire resembling the last Sikh guru in an advertisement in 2007.