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Bollywood News Updated Jun 10, 2026

Varun Dhawan Calls Rakhi Sawant an Icon of Pop Culture

Varun Dhawan has called Rakhi Sawant an icon and a part of pop culture. He made the remarks during an appearance on comedian Tanmay Bhat's show. The actor also discussed how his father David Dhawan roasted him about his smile. He revealed that a joke about his smile was planned for his new film but was eventually cut.

Varun Dhawan: Rakhi Sawant is part of pop culture now, she's an icon

Mumbai, June 10

Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan is a fan of Rakhi Sawant. The actor recently appeared on comedian Tanmay Bhat's show, and called Rakhi, an icon, who has become a part of pop-culture.

During the episode of the show, the actor along with others saw an Internet meme showing an installation at a music concert, which resembled Rakhi Sawant.

The actor said, "She's a part of pop culture now. I think she's an icon. And seeing her, I think a lot of people have copied her. A lot of people try to copy her but obviously, there's one Rakhi Sawant".

Elsewhere during the episode, the actor shared how his father David Dhawan roasted him. The director also wanted the audience to enjoy the joke at his son's expense by using the joke in his film but eventually didn't use it.

When asked if he anticipated being trolled for his smile, Varun said, "No, I thought I would be made fun of because of something else. I never thought anyone would make fun of this. I thought there are so many things (for which he could be trolled) like my voice, for instance. I would literally sound like an 8-year-old girl, initially. That's what my brother used to tell me, when I made my debut, I thought voice, height, bad acting, etc. I didn't think the smile was so bad".

However, the actor turned out to be a good sport, as he appreciated the jokes around his smile, as he said, "I think after a while, it became funny. It actually became funny for me. I found the biscuit one very funny".

He then went on to reveal how his father came up with the idea to make fun of his smile.

"There's a joke in my new film, which my dad wanted to do to me. But then eventually he didn't do it. It was supposed to be a scene where I have kids, and their smile is same as mine. I was like, 'Why do you want to do that?. He said, 'No, no, let's do it. People will laugh at you", he added.

— IANS

Reader Comments

Priyanka N

I get what Varun is trying to say but calling her an 'icon' feels like a stretch. She's famous for being loud and creating drama, not for any real talent or contribution. But I do appreciate Varun's humility in laughing at himself - that's rare among Bollywood stars today.

Aryan P

Rakhi Sawant is definitely a pop culture phenomenon! Whether you love her or hate her, you can't ignore her. She's been relevant for over a decade which is more than most so-called stars can claim. And Varun owning his smile jokes shows he's secure about himself - that's what we need more of in Bollywood! 😄

Sneha F

Honestly, the way Varun speaks about his father roasting him is so cute! That father-son bond in Bollywood is something else. And about Rakhi - she's definitely become an 'item number' icon but I wish we had more substance in pop culture than just entertainment for entertainment's sake. Still, good to see celebrities being candid.

Manish T

Varun Dhawan is one of the most grounded actors in the industry and this interview just proves it. The way he talks about his 'weaknesses' like his voice and smile shows real confidence. As for Rakhi being an icon - well, she represents a certain kind of fame that's built on being unapologetically yourself. I respect that hustle! 🔥

Deepak U

Rakhi Sawant being called an icon is peak what-has-our-society-come-to moment. She's known for vulgarity and cheap publicity stunts. Varun is a decent actor but this take is disappointing.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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