Kareena Kapoor Khan Faces Legal Notice Over Heirloom Pendant Worn at Diwali

A festive pendant worn by Kareena Kapoor Khan during Diwali 2026 has sparked a legal dispute due to a Quranic verse carved onto the jewellery. The piece is a 30-carat emerald that belonged to the former royal family of Bhopal and features the Ayat-ul-Kursi inscription. Congress spokesperson Abbas Hafeez sent a legal notice demanding that the actress delete her photos from social media and offer a public apology.

Outfit Details

For her festive look, Kareena wore a silver kaftan and a matching turban, styled by Rhea Kapoor. The ensemble included a 200-year-old kalgi from the Nawab of Bhopal alongside the emerald heirloom. Stylist Rhea Kapoor noted that these pieces belong to Kareena and came through the family of her husband, Saif Ali Khan, whose grandmother Sajida Sultan was the daughter of the last ruling Nawab of Bhopal.

The Legal Objection

Abbas Hafeez objected to using a religious verse as a fashion accessory, stating the pendant was meant to express faith rather than serve style purposes. Hafeez clarified that the objection is purely about the Quranic text and not about celebrating Diwali, noting it would be objectionable even if worn on Eid. Advocate Mohammad Zafar stated that the notice demands the removal of photos and warned of further legal action if the demand is ignored, while the Hindu Utsav Samiti has offered support to the actress.

Context

Old family heirlooms and historical royal jewels are frequently worn by public figures during major celebrations and public appearances in India. When religious symbols or verses are part of such historical artifacts, wearing them in modern fashion contexts can sometimes spark public debates about cultural respect and religious sensibilities.