Nearly three decades after the blackbuck hunting controversy put Salman Khan at the centre of a major legal and religious dispute, an unexpected peace initiative has emerged. Ramesh Bishnoi, uncle of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has invited the Bollywood superstar to visit a revered temple in Rajasthan and seek forgiveness from the Bishnoi community.
The invitation has added a new dimension to the controversy, especially amid the actor’s ongoing security concerns. But will Bhaijaan consider the offer?
Lawrence Bishnoi’s Uncle Wants Salman To Visit This Temple
Ramesh made the appeal during the 542nd foundation day celebrations of the Bishnoi Samaj. He invited Salman to Mukti Dham Mukam in Bikaner, Rajasthan, a sacred shrine associated with Guru Jambheshwar, the founder of the Bishnoi faith.
As reported by The Tribune, Ramesh believes that a visit to the shrine and an apology could help settle the long-standing dispute. He also clarified that he has no personal hostility towards the actor.
The proposed visit is significant because the Bishnoi community has consistently expressed resentment over the alleged killing of two blackbucks in Rajasthan’s Kankani village in October 1998.
Peace Offer Comes Amid Salman’s Security Concerns
The development comes against the backdrop of threats linked to Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang. Salman’s father, veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, has also previously raised concerns about the actor’s safety.
Addressing the issue, Ramesh reportedly distanced himself from threats and violence against Salman. He even offered to personally ensure the actor’s safety if he agreed to visit Mukam temple.
His appeal suggests that he wants the decades-old dispute to end through dialogue rather than hostility.
Why The Bishnoi Community Has Not Forgotten The 1998 Incident
The blackbuck controversy dates back to the shooting of Sooraj Barjatya’s Hum Saath-Saath Hain. Salman was accused of hunting two blackbucks near Jodhpur during the film’s production.
For the Bishnoi community, wildlife protection is deeply connected to religious beliefs. Its 29 principles, established by Guru Jambheshwar in the 15th century, emphasise environmental conservation and compassion towards living beings. Blackbucks hold particular religious significance for its members.
In 2018, a Jodhpur court convicted Salman under the Wildlife Protection Act and sentenced him to five years in prison. He was subsequently granted bail.
Will Bhaijaan Accept The Peace Invitation?
Ramesh’s outreach has once again brought the possibility of reconciliation into the spotlight. However, Salman has not confirmed whether he intends to visit the religious shrine or respond to the invitation.
Whether the actor accepts the offer remains to be seen. For now, the unexpected peace gesture has reopened discussions around a controversy that has continued for 28 years.
