In response to Raj Thackeray's criticism of the icon of India, Asha Bhosale, after she participated in a music show which is a competition between Pakistani vocalists and Indian singers, Bhosale said that the show was only following the tradition of "Athithi Devo Bhava", a tradition honored in India since times immemorial even if the guest is the worst enemy. In a press conference she had defended her position and said that Pakistani singers should also be welcomed.

MNS Chief Raj Thackeray apparently not convinced with her response slammed her and questioned if her intents were driven by money or true hospitality of a host. "Is this 'Atithee Devo Bhava' or 'Paisa Devo Bhava'?'' Raj asked, indicating the money she received for the show. He spoke of her at Ravindra Natya Mandir while speaking to several other senior MNS functionaries. He also spoke of the family's freedom fighter Veer Savarkar and questioned, "Would Veer Savarkar have endorsed Bhosale's decision to collaborate with Pakistani singers?''

While no other dignitary from the movie fraternity had publicly backed Asha, a few others had spoken whilst supporting her. Film maker Mahesh Bhatt privately said, "Remaining silent on the entire issue out of fear will ultimately prove detrimental to the film industry... We must all stand up for peace and rally behind Bhosale, who is our national icon. We must support people-to-people contact with Pakistan.''

Disparaged MNS leader said that they held 'Latadidi' and 'Ashatai' in the highest regards whom they referred to as priceless gems of singers in the world. They also said, "Ashatai should not have lent support to 'Sur-Kshetra'.''

They further threatened her saying, "If such programmes are repeated, we will take serious action. The MNS will not be responsible for the consequences,'' Thackeray said.

(AW- Anil)