Dileep's Bha Bha Bha scene draws ire for double-meaning kidnapping joke

Still from Bha Bha Bha

Amid much debate and discussion, Malayalam actor Dileep's film Bha Bha Bha was released in theatres on December 18. The film marks Dileep's first release after his acquittal in the actress assault case, which was under investigation for nearly nine years. Dileep's alleged involvement in the case came to light in mid-2017. While there continues to be considerable social media backlash against the actor even after the acquittal, discussions have now shifted to the content of Bha Bha Bha, which also features superstar Mohanlal in a cameo.

About Bha Bha Bha kidnapping scene

The actress assault case pertains to the abduction and sexual assault of a Malayalam film actress in a moving car, which Dileep was accused of masterminding for personal vendetta. The plot of Bha Bha Bha also revolves around the kidnapping of a central character by Radar (Dileep) in his car.

A particular scene from the film has now come under criticism for poor taste and for allegedly mocking the real-life case. In the scene, Dhyan Sreenivasan's character, Godson Ancharakandy, refers to Radar as a "professional kidnapper," stating that it is not the first time he has kidnapped someone.

The scene then cuts to a flashback showing Radar kidnapping Ramani. A woman is seen on screen as Radar approaches her in his car, while a voiceover says, "He kidnapped and milked her," followed by a pause that allows the sexually coloured joke to sink in. It is then revealed that Ramani was a cow.

The scene drew the ire of audiences, many of whom could not help but link it to the actress assault case. Several users took to social media to criticise the poorly written scene, especially given the case involving the lead actor.

Chinmayi Sripaada reacts to controversial scene

Singer Chinmayi Sripaada reacted strongly to the scene and wrote on X, "People have come to a point where they are actually making a joke about a real-life sexual assault case in a film whose ‘quotation giver' has still not been found. Hell is probably better than here."

Meanwhile, there are other scenes in the film where Radar is portrayed as a victim seeking revenge against his naysayers. He speaks about settling scores with the media and press who have "ruined his life," regardless of how influential they are. At one point, he asks, "Should I not do at least this much to those who spoiled my life?" The moment appeared like a breaking of the fourth wall, with Dileep seemingly responding to events from the past nine years.