“You Can Erase Writing, Not What’s Etched in People’s Hearts” — Riteish Deshmukh Responds to BJP Leader on Vilasrao Deshmukh

Mumbai: Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh on Tuesday delivered an emotional and dignified response to controversial remarks made by Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan about his late father and former Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh. The actor said that the legacy of leaders who lived for the people cannot be erased by political statements.

In a video message shared publicly, Riteish Deshmukh said, “I say with folded hands that the names of those who lived for the people are etched on their minds. What is written can be erased, but you can’t erase what is etched.” His remarks quickly resonated across political and social circles, drawing widespread support.

The response came a day after Ravindra Chavan, while addressing party workers in Latur, claimed that the memory of Vilasrao Deshmukh would be erased from the city. The statement triggered sharp political reactions, especially from the Congress party, which termed the remarks disrespectful and historically ignorant.

Congress leaders accused the BJP of attempting to undermine the legacy of a leader who played a pivotal role in Maharashtra’s development and governance. They said such comments reflected “arrogance of power” and a lack of understanding of Vilasrao Deshmukh’s contribution to the state and his deep connection with the people of Latur.