Gere, who publicly showed affection to the Indien actress Shilpa Shetty, has caused outrage in the country, where such gestures are not acceptable.
The incident took place last weekend. Gere was in India to participate in an anti-AIDS event. While on stage with Shetty, Gere gave a hug and a kiss on the cheek to the actress. Such displays of affection in public are taboo in India.
Three lawyers have filed lawsuits against both the actor and the actress. A spokesperson for Shilpa Shetty said, "The media should concentrate on the promotion of the cause of AIDS awareness rather than making an issue out of kisses."