Raza Murad’s ‘Shahenshah Abu Lahaab’ look from The Battle of Shatrughat Stirs Controversy

Senior actor Raza Murad recently shared his first look from his upcoming historical film, The Battle of Shatrughat. The actor is stepping into the role of Shahenshah Abu Lahaab. Ever since Raza Murad unveiled his look, it has stirred controversy with stern reactions from the audience, with many condemning the character choice.

Also Read: Rani Mukerji Helps Shah Rukh Khan With National Award Medal, Fans Call It BFF Goals

“Abu Lahaab? Is that cursed name deliberate?” wrote a user, and another wrote, “Is nobody going to question the name Emperor Abu Lahaab?” A comment read, “Did you know about Abu Lahaab...I think you’re living with this cursed character, you Bollywood guys why in every moment you make fun of our Islam. You are also a cursed guy,” and another read, “Hope it’s not a propaganda movie.”

A user wrote, “Abu Lahaab is a la’aeen mentioned in Quran and is an extremely cursed person. Why would you name yourself Abu Lahaab?” and another wrote, “Raza saab, bahot kaam kiya aap ne aur yaqeenan bahot paisa bhi bana lia hoga bahot naam aur izzat bhi bana li he...Ab is waqt aa kar aap Abu Lahaab ban gaye..Hindus ko toh shayad nahi pata lekin aapne kabhi bhoole bhatke Quran padha hoga toh fir aap Deen ko bhi samajhtey k ye qirdar kon hai aur aap ki pehchaan naa bann jaye kahin...aur aap ka hashar bhi iske saath naa ho jaye kahin..ye bahot sensitive cheezen hai..”

In Islamic history, Abu Lahaab (real name ‘Abd al-‘Uzzā ibn ‘Abd al-Muṭṭalib) was the Prophet Muhammad’s paternal uncle. He openly opposed the Prophet at the start of his message, and because of this hostility the Qur’an revealed Surah Al-Masad (Chapter 111) condemning Abu Lahaab and his wife. For Muslims, the name “Abu Lahaab” is therefore remembered in a strongly negative way

What’s shocking for the audience is that the man, who as per Islamic belief, was the first to insult Prophet Muhammad (SAW), is now being depicted as an emperor on-screen. And this perspective is exactly what’s causing a stir online. The film also stars Zarina Wahab as his queen Malika Laila Khatoon.

Currently, the film is under production; however, Raza Murad as Shahenshah Abu Lahaab has got many talking online.

Also Read: 71st National Film Awards: Malayalam Superstar Mohanlal receives Dadasaheb Phalke Award