New Delhi: Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut, renowned for her impressive performances in films like ‘Krrish 3’ and ‘Manikarnika’, is currently embroiled in a storm of controversy surrounding her forthcoming political drama, ‘Emergency’. The film, which delves into the life of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the political turbulence of 1975, has come under fire for allegedly offending Sikh sentiments.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the Akal Takht have strongly condemned the film, calling for its immediate ban. They assert that ‘Emergency’ intentionally seeks to undermine the Sikh community. Additionally, they have urged legal action against Ranaut, accusing the film of ‘character assassination’ by portraying Sikhs in a negative light.
Addressing the media during a press conference on Wednesday, SGPC Chief Harjinder Singh Dhami did not mince words in his criticism of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Dhami labeled the CBFC as ‘biased’ and argued for the inclusion of Sikh representatives on the censor board to ensure fair treatment. His concerns stem from what he perceives as consistent misrepresentation of Sikh history and sentiments in cinema, an issue that has sparked grievances within the community in the past.
In parallel, Gyani Raghbir Singh, the Jathedar (head) of the Akal Takht, echoed Dhami’s allegations, claiming that ‘Emergency’ severely disrespects the Sikh community. He highlighted that the film takes aim at Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale, who is revered as a martyr by the Akal Takht. Furthermore, Singh criticized the government’s inaction against Ranaut, insisting that authorities need to address what he believes is a deliberate provocation of religious sentiments.
The controversy around ‘Emergency’ has been building since Kangana Ranaut first announced the project in 2021. Ranaut has since clarified that the movie, while dramatizing specific events, is not a biopic of Indira Gandhi but rather a broader political drama. In addition to playing the lead role, Ranaut is also at the helm as the film’s director. The cast features notable actors including Anupam Kher, Milind Soman, Mahima Chaudhry, and Shreyas Talpade. Shreyas Talpade portrays Atal Bihari Vajpayee, while Anupam Kher steps into the role of Jayaprakash Narayan. The late Satish Kaushik appears as Former Deputy Prime Minister Jagjivan Ram.
The production of ‘Emergency’ has faced multiple delays, with its release date being postponed several times. The film is now scheduled to hit theaters on September 6, 2024.
. This delay has only fueled the ongoing discussions and debates regarding its content and intended message.
Chief Harjinder Singh Dhami’s criticism of the CBFC’s alleged bias is not new. Historical tensions between the CBFC and Sikh organizations have surfaced multiple times over issues regarding the portrayal of Sikhs in Indian cinema. Dhami’s call for the inclusion of Sikh members on the censor board is a significant demand, aimed at ensuring more balanced and respectful representation in future films.
Similarly, the concerns raised by Gyani Raghbir Singh highlight the sensitivities surrounding the depiction of historical figures and events in Indian media. His remarks about Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale reflect deeper historical grievances and the enduring respect many hold for Bhindranwale within the Sikh community. Singh’s plea for government intervention stresses the potential repercussions of the film on communal harmony and religious sentiments.
Kangana Ranaut’s role in the film has also been a focal point of the controversy. Known for her outspoken nature and willingness to tackle provocative subjects, Ranaut has often found herself at the center of public and media scrutiny. Her directorial venture in ‘Emergency’ further amplifies these dynamics, as it intertwines her artistic vision with politically and historically charged narratives.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Ranaut remains firm in her vision for ‘Emergency’. Her assertion that the film is a political drama rather than a straightforward biopic indicates an intention to explore the broader context of the Emergency period in India, a time marked by significant political and social upheaval. The involvement of a star-studded cast underlines the film’s high-profile nature and the widespread attention it has garnered.
The reaction to ‘Emergency’ illustrates the complex relationship between Bollywood and socio-political narratives in India. Films often act as powerful mediums that reflect and influence public perceptions, making their content, portrayal, and intentions subject to intense scrutiny. The calls for a ban and legal action against ‘Emergency’ underscore the responsibilities filmmakers bear when engaging with sensitive and significant historical subjects.
As the release date approaches, the debate surrounding ‘Emergency’ is likely to intensify, drawing in voices from various sectors, including political, social, and religious communities. The unfolding events will ultimately determine the reception and impact of Kangana Ranaut’s ambitious project, both within Indian cinema and the broader societal dialogue on representation and historical narrative.
