Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan has received a legal notice over a historic emerald necklace featuring Ayat-ul-Kursi, a revered verse from the Holy Quran. The actress wore the jewellery during her Diwali celebrations, and photographs of her festive appearance later sparked controversy on social media.
The legal notice was reportedly sent by Abbas Hafeez, a Congress leader and social activist from Madhya Pradesh. Celebrity stylist Rhea Kapoor, who arranged Kareena’s outfit and jewellery, has also been named in the notice.
The complainant has objected to the way the Quranic inscription was presented in photographs shared online. He has demanded the removal of the relevant pictures and videos, a public apology and an assurance that the religious inscription will be treated with respect.
Why Kareena Kapoor Received the Legal Notice
The controversy began after Kareena shared photographs of her Diwali look on Instagram. She wore a traditional beige outfit designed by Punit Balana, paired with a matching turban and traditional jewellery.
However, a large emerald pendant attracted particular attention. The 30-carat emerald features an engraving of Ayat-ul-Kursi, which is verse 255 of Surah Al-Baqarah.
According to reports, Hafeez objected to the presentation of the sacred Quranic verse as part of a fashion accessory. His complaint was reportedly not directed at Kareena’s clothing or personal fashion choices.
He argued that religious inscriptions should be displayed in a way that respects their spiritual importance. The notice reportedly states that the presentation caused concern among members of the Muslim community and people connected with Bhopal’s historical heritage.
Historic Emerald Necklace Linked to Royal Family of Bhopal
The necklace has also attracted attention because of its reported historical background.
Rhea Kapoor shared details of the jewellery on Instagram, describing it as a historic heirloom connected to the former royal family of Bhopal.
The emerald reportedly belonged to the Begum of Bhopal and was passed down through Kareena’s husband Saif Ali Khan’s family. The piece is said to be around 200 years old.
According to the reported family history, the jewellery is associated with Sajida Sultan, Saif Ali Khan’s paternal grandmother. She was the daughter of Hamidullah Khan, the last ruling Nawab of Bhopal.
The pendant’s royal connection and religious inscription have made it the centre of the ongoing discussion.
What Does the Legal Notice Demand?
Abbas Hafeez has reportedly made several demands in the legal notice. These include removing photographs and videos featuring the pendant from the social media accounts of Kareena Kapoor and Rhea Kapoor.
He has also sought an unconditional public apology and an assurance that the Quranic inscription will not be presented in a manner that could undermine its religious sanctity.
The complainant has indicated that he may pursue further legal action through the police or courts if the demands are not addressed.
However, receiving a legal notice does not mean that a person has been found guilty or that a law has necessarily been violated. The allegations and objections would need to be examined through the relevant legal process.
Kareena Kapoor and Rhea Kapoor Yet to Respond
As of November 12, neither Kareena Kapoor Khan nor Rhea Kapoor has issued a publicly confirmed response to the legal notice, according to the available information.
The controversy has also renewed discussions about the use of religious verses and sacred inscriptions in jewellery and fashion. It has raised questions about how religious symbols should be presented, particularly when they carry spiritual importance for a community.
For now, attention remains on the demands made in the legal notice and whether the actress or her stylist will issue a response.
