In an era where the film industry often finds itself marred by controversies and backbiting, Anurag Kashyap has taken an unusual step by openly defending Sandeep Reddy Vanga, the director of “Animal.” Known for his forthrightness, Kashyap described Vanga as “honest” amid a sea of insincerity that he believes plagues the industry. This statement comes in the wake of the release of “Animal,” a film starring Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna, which has been a subject of intense scrutiny and criticism.
Vanga, notorious for his unflinching responses to criticism, has been thrust into the limelight following the adverse reception of his new film. In a candid conversation with Zoom TV, Anurag Kashyap expressed his admiration for Vanga’s straightforwardness, contrasting it with the widespread pretentiousness he sees around him. “I like the guy (Sandeep). I have no problem with him,” Kashyap said. “Unlike a lot of people in the industry who pretend to be someone they are not, he is honest. The former kind, I think, is even more toxic. But Vanga is an honest man. I don’t like anything more than honesty, no matter what others’ issues with honesty are. I love talking to him.”
Kashyap’s support for Vanga doesn’t end with just words. Drawing parallels to his own experiences following the release of the now-iconic “Dev D” in 2009, Kashyap recalled how he too faced a ‘cancellation’ of sorts. “I was cancelled after Dev D for making a ‘misogynistic’ film,” he reflected. “I have often seen people isolating someone, attacking someone, and that is not the way to be. I met Sandeep and I liked him. I liked the guy. I’ve had questions of my own, and I wanted to talk to him about his film (Animal), so I invited him, and we had a long five-hour conversation. I like the guy..
.. I always believe in talking to people.”
It’s noteworthy that Kashyap’s endorsement comes at a time when Vanga’s approach to addressing his critics has only amplified the controversy surrounding “Animal.” Vanga has not shied away from engaging with every critique, which has only fueled further debate. It is perhaps this very willingness to confront issues head-on that Kashyap finds so commendable in Vanga.
On his professional front, Anurag Kashyap is gearing up for a new role that deviates considerably from his real-life persona. He will soon be seen in “Bad Cop,” portraying a quirky, charming, yet deadly villain named Kazbe. Speaking about the challenges of embracing such a dark character, Kashyap shared, “I have created a lot of characters that are gory, quirky, dark, and many more things, but believe it or not, it was difficult for me to portray one. Kazbe is someone who doesn’t think too much before doing anything; he just does it. He is a dreadful, eccentric, nefarious, and quintessential villain. I had to delve into the intricacies of this character and make it my own.”
Kashyap’s defense of Vanga is refreshing in a landscape where filmmakers often steer clear of aligning themselves with those embroiled in controversy. It reflects a solidarity within an industry known for its cutthroat competition and political undercurrents. By standing by Vanga, Kashyap underscores the importance of integrity and open dialogue, qualities he evidently holds in high esteem.
The ramifications of Kashyap’s statements are likely to spark further discussions about authenticity and toxicity in the film industry, issues that have been long-standing yet frequently swept under the rug. This conversation could potentially lead to a more candid discourse about the ethical implications of filmmaking and critique.
Meanwhile, Kashyap remains unfazed by the potential backlash that might come his way due to his support for Vanga. His filmography, marked by bold choices and controversial subjects, speaks to his willingness to walk the less-traveled path. Whether as a filmmaker or as an outspoken critic of industry norms, Kashyap continues to challenge the status quo, unafraid to mix things up.
As the debate around “Animal” rages on, one thing is clear: the conversation about honesty and transparency in the industry has been reignited. And in that fiery discourse, Anurag Kashyap finds himself, once again, at the center, stirring the pot and pushing the envelope, as only he can.
