Actor Sanjay Dutt says his 'I can't feel peace in India' remark was scripted amid backlash

Shortly after stirring up a controversy online with his comment, "I can't feel peace in India," during an appearance on Shekhar Suman's talk show Shekhar Tonite , Sanjay Dutt has issued a clarification, insisting that the remark was taken out of intended context.

Taking to X, Dutt explained that his remarks were part of a scripted conversation between him and the host.

"I would like to clarify that it was never my intention to hurt, offend, or disrespect the sentiments of any individual, community, or institution," he wrote on October 4.

He continued, "My remarks were made in the context of a scripted conversation intended to be light-hearted and humorous. The spirit behind them was similar to the humour and satire seen in films like Munna Bhai, particularly the concept of 'Gandhigiri,' which was intended to convey a message of love, warmth, togetherness, and goodwill. Unfortunately, my words were interpreted outside of that intended context."

I would like to clarify that it was never my intention to hurt, offend, or disrespect the sentiments of any individual, community, or institution.

My remarks were made in the context of a scripted conversation intended to be light-hearted and humorous. The spirit behind them was…

— Sanjay Dutt (@duttsanjay) October 4, 2026

The clarification comes after Dutt's remark stirred up a controversy online and dominated headlines.

On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the 67-year-old actor has graced the talk show where he talked about how he doesn't feel "peace in India anymore".

"The people of this country are so lovely. There should be peace here. I can't feel that peace in our country anymore. We Indians are large-hearted people, and we are hospitable. We have given so much, and we should always remain that way. I pray to Shivji that those days come back soon," he said.

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During the conversation, as part of a political satire, Dutt also reimagined his iconic character Munna Bhai as the Prime Minister of India for five minutes. He also delivered a fictional address to the citizens in Munna Bhai style.

In the speech, Dutt said he would not spend most of his time outside the country and instead of his photographs, he would put up pictures of Mahatma Gandhi everywhere.