The controversy began after footage surfaced showing a stray dog sitting in front of an event backdrop where Khesari Lal Yadav was scheduled to pose for photographers. Moments before the photo session, members of the event staff were seen dragging the dog away from the spot so the actor could stand in front of the backdrop for pictures.

While Khesari Lal Yadav did not physically move the animal himself, the video showed him waiting nearby as the dog was removed. The visuals quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing criticism from several users and animal lovers who described the handling of the animal as harsh and unnecessary.

Among those reacting was actor Malaika Arora, who reposted the video on her official social media account. Expressing her displeasure, she questioned the behaviour seen in the clip and criticised the celebrity standing for photographs while the incident unfolded.

In one of her posts, Malaika referred to the act as “disgusting” and questioned the identity of the actor seen in the video. She also commented separately on the post, asking why posing for photographs was considered more important than showing compassion toward the animal. Her remarks soon gained significant attention online and fuelled further discussion around the incident.

The comments also highlighted that Malaika initially appeared unaware that the person in the video was Bhojpuri actor Khesari Lal Yadav. After users identified him, many supporters of the actor responded by pointing out his popularity in Bhojpuri cinema and arguing that he was not personally seen dragging the dog. Others, however, maintained that he could have intervened or stopped the situation instead of remaining silent.

The viral video has since divided opinion on social media. One section of users supported Malaika Arora's criticism, saying public figures should speak up when animals are treated inhumanely. Another section defended Khesari Lal Yadav, arguing that members of the event management, rather than the actor, were responsible for removing the dog.

Neither Khesari Lal Yadav nor his representatives had issued an official statement on the controversy at the time of writing. Event organisers have also not publicly responded to the criticism or clarified the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Khesari Lal Yadav is among the biggest names in the Bhojpuri film industry. Rising to fame with the success of Sajan Chale Sasural in 2011, he has built a successful career as both an actor and playback singer. Over the years, he has appeared in more than 100 Bhojpuri films and has delivered numerous chart-topping songs. He also gained nationwide recognition after participating in the reality television show Bigg Boss 13.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the responsibilities of celebrities and event organisers in ensuring that animals are treated humanely during public programmes. Animal welfare advocates have frequently stressed that stray animals should never be handled roughly for the sake of photographs or event arrangements.

As the debate continues across social media, many users have called for greater sensitivity toward animals in public spaces, while others await a response from Khesari Lal Yadav regarding the criticism directed at him.