Paresh Rawal Calls Sushant Singh Rajput Death Coverage A Disturbing 'Media Circus'
Rawal Criticises Media Frenzy After Sushant's Death
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has criticised the intense media coverage surrounding the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput during the COVID-19 lockdown, saying he "bloody hated" what he described as the "media circus" around the case. Speaking on journalist Vicky Lalwani's podcast, Rawal reflected on the impact television news had on him during the pandemic and recalled why he deliberately stayed away from news channels on medical advice.
During the conversation, Lalwani referred to Rawal's earlier remarks about avoiding television news during the nationwide lockdown after being advised by his doctor to do so. Responding to the comment, Rawal said the recommendation was linked to his blood pressure. "Mera toh BP ki wajah se bhai," he said, explaining that excessive exposure to television news was affecting his health during that period.
The discussion then turned to the extensive television coverage following the death of Sushant Singh Rajput, who was found dead at his apartment in Mumbai on June 14, 2020. Lalwani remarked on the intense media attention the case received during the lockdown, describing it as a "circus." Agreeing with the observation, Rawal responded, "Sushant Singh wala jo circus tha woh toh I bloody hated it," expressing his strong disapproval of how the case was covered by sections of the media.
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Rajput's death became one of the most widely covered news stories in India, dominating television debates and digital platforms for months. The case triggered multiple investigations by different agencies and generated widespread public discussion, with continuous media coverage drawing both support and criticism. Several journalists, public figures and members of the entertainment industry questioned the tone and extent of the reporting, arguing that it often crossed the line between public interest and sensationalism.
Apart from discussing the media coverage, Rawal also spoke about the impact of his political career on his health. While reflecting on different phases of his life, the actor suggested that the pressures associated with public life, combined with the constant flow of news during the pandemic, contributed to stress. His remarks offered a personal perspective on why he chose to distance himself from television news during that period.
Rawal's comments have once again brought attention to the debate over responsible media reporting, particularly in high-profile cases involving celebrities. His criticism of the coverage surrounding Rajput's death echoes concerns previously raised by several members of the film industry and media observers, who have argued that news reporting should balance public interest with sensitivity, accuracy and respect for due process.
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