A Maharashtra government official, Prashant Thorat, has been suspended following a viral video that showed him singing a Bollywood song during his farewell event, sparking widespread criticism online.
The tehsildar, who belted out a classic tune from the 1981 Amitabh Bachchan film Yaarana, faced backlash for what many deemed inappropriate behavior for a public servant.
The incident, which occurred during a send-off party in Umri, Nanded district, led to swift administrative action, highlighting the expectations of decorum in official settings.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage Over Official’s Conduct
The video, widely circulated on social media, captures Prashant Thorat singing “Yara Teri Yari Ko” while seated in his official chair at a farewell gathering on August 8, 2025, in Umri, Nanded district.
Shocking‼️
District Magistrate singing Bollywood songs in courtroom.
And we wonder why are the court cases not resolved earlier ?
Pathetic state of law and order under BJP Govt in Maharashtra. #VoteChorBJP
pic.twitter.com/qhgu3aaZRw— Priyamwada (@PriaINC) August 16, 2025
The clip shows attendees clapping along, with a board reading “taluka magistrate” visible behind Thorat, emphasizing his position of authority. Shared online, the footage drew sharp criticism from netizens who argued that singing in such a setting was unbecoming of a tehsildar, undermining the seriousness of his role.
The public outcry prompted scrutiny of Thorat’s actions, with many questioning the appropriateness of using an official space for such a performance.
Administrative Action and Suspension
Thorat, who was transferred from Umri to Renapur in Latur district on July 30, 2025, and assumed his new role the same day, faced consequences after the video gained traction.
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The Nanded collector submitted a report to higher authorities, stating that Thorat’s conduct violated the Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1979, and damaged the administration’s reputation.
Acting on this report, Divisional Commissioner of Revenue Jitendra Papalkar ordered Thorat’s suspension, citing the need to uphold professional standards. The swift response underscores the government’s stance on maintaining decorum among public officials, especially in the face of public criticism.
