Did not speak ill of Rishi, Anupam: Gajendra Chauhan

Actor Gajendra Chauhan today denied speaking in an insulting manner about Bollywood veterans Rishi Kapoor and Anupam Kher for their criticism over his continuance as FTII chairperson.
Kher and Kapoor have come out in support of the students of Pune-based Film and Television Institute of India, who have been protesting against Chauhan's appointment as the chairman of institute's governing council.
They alleged he lacks "stature and vision" to head the premier institute.
Chauhan, best known for playing Yudhisthira on TV epic "Mahabharata", refuted the reports that quoted him saying "who are Anupam Kher and Rishi Kapoor."
"I have never said this. I can not even think of using such words for those, who are so senior and luminaries of the film industry... With whom I have worked for so many years," Chauhan told PTI.

He said using such language is not a part of his culture.

"Since I did not use such language to refer the two senior artistes, why should I issue a denial."
Chauhan said the duo have their right to freedom of speech and can voice their opinions, when asked about his view on their statement that he should step down from his post.
"Both are very senior to me and big figures in the industry... Everyone has the right to freedom of speech," he said.
Actor and BJP MP Shatrughan Sinha said that the government should step in with a "middle way" to end the stalemate and protect the dignity of Chauhan.

"Shatrughan Sinha is my elder brother and what he has said are his views. But ultimately, it is the government, who has to take the final call," he added.
Chauhan, however, declined to make any comment when asked how he felt the lack of support for him from the film industry.