Fame is the currency that fuels Bollywood, whether you are an emerging star or a seasoned veteran. In the world of showbiz, popularity can be achieved through accomplishments or controversy—both hold equal value when it comes to staying relevant. It is not uncommon for celebrities to find themselves in the limelight for reasons that extend beyond their professional work, and Kareena Kapoor Khan is no exception.
Her memoir, Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Pregnancy Bible: The Ultimate Manual for Moms-To-Be, was published in 2021. The book, released by HarperCollins India—one of the world’s largest English-language publishers—aims to serve as a comprehensive guide for expectant mothers. However, a recent legal notice regarding its title has reignited debate over the use of religious terms in secular contexts.
The Legal Battle
According to a Hindustan Times City report dated May 13, 2024, Kareena Kapoor has received a legal notice for incorporating the word "Bible" in her book's title. The notice was served following a petition filed by advocate Christopher Anthony in the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The court has sought an explanation regarding the use of the term, raising questions about its suitability in a pregnancy-related book. Alongside Kapoor, a legal notice was also issued to booksellers distributing the memoir.
The book itself is intended to be a guide for expectant mothers, covering essential topics such as nutrition, fitness routines, self-care, and mental well-being. Designed as a friendly and informative manual, it provides valuable insights for women navigating the complexities of pregnancy. While such books generally receive encouragement and appreciation for their contribution to women's health, Kapoor's memoir has instead become the subject of legal scrutiny.
The Meaning Behind "Bible"
At the heart of the controversy is the interpretation of the word "Bible." Traditionally, the term refers to the sacred scriptures of Christianity, comprising the Old Testament and the New Testament. From a theological perspective, the Bible is regarded as the divine revelation of God's word, spoken through Jesus Christ. Given this definition, critics argue that the use of the term in a secular book about pregnancy is inappropriate and misleading.
However, language is fluid, and words often carry multiple meanings. Beyond its religious connotation, "Bible" has a widely accepted literary meaning as well. The term originates from the Greek word biblos, which simply means "book." Over time, it has come to represent an authoritative or comprehensive guide on any subject. For example, it is common to refer to a definitive manual as the "Bible" of a particular field—whether in cooking, fitness, or even technology. By this definition, Kapoor's memoir, which serves as a comprehensive resource for pregnancy, aligns with the broader usage of the term.
The Debate Over Religious Sensitivities
The controversy surrounding the book raises broader questions about religious sensitivity and the ownership of language. Can a word like "Bible" be exclusively claimed by a religious community, or should it be recognized for its broader usage? If language is meant to evolve and serve as a tool for communication, should its meanings be confined to historical or religious interpretations alone?
No single individual or institution can patent a word or claim absolute authority over its usage. The Bible—in both its religious and literary contexts—has long been associated with guiding principles meant to help people lead better lives. Similarly, Kapoor’s memoir aims to provide guidance to women during one of the most transformative phases of their lives. When viewed through this lens, the title of her book does not appear to be disrespectful or inappropriate.
The Need for Perspective
Religious sensitivities are deeply personal, and it is natural for some individuals to feel protective of words associated with their faith. However, in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world, the rigidity of definitions must be reconsidered. While religions aspire for universal recognition, they must also acknowledge the evolving nature of language and its application in diverse contexts.
Ultimately, controversies like this highlight the ongoing tension between tradition and modernity. Whether the legal challenge against Kapoor's memoir holds weight in court remains to be seen, but it certainly sparks an important discussion about language, freedom of expression, and the fine line between respect and restriction.