Bollywood has always been a melting pot of creativity and controversy. Films often push boundaries, but some recent Hindi releases have sparked intense debates, raising questions about representation, politics, and historical accuracy. From political dramas to sensitive portrayals, these films have not only drawn moviegoers on a massive scale but also ignited widespread debate and criticism.
Recent controversies have spotlighted the delicate balance filmmakers must maintain while addressing sensitive topics. Films like The Kashmir Files, The Kerala Story, and Emergency have faced backlash for their depiction of historical events, religious communities and political figures. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most controversial Hindi films of recent times and the debates they have sparked.
1. The Kashmir Files (2022)
The Kashmir Files, directed by Vivek Agnihotri, faced multiple controversies upon its release. The film, which explores the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits during the insurgency in the 1990s, was criticised for its graphic violence and alleged portrayal of Muslims in a negative light. The timing of the release and the film’s depiction led to accusations of propaganda. Israeli director Nadav Lapid, the jury chairperson at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), labelled it “vulgar and propaganda,” sparking a heated debate. Agnihotri defended the film, asserting it was a genuine depiction against terrorism, not propaganda.
2. The Kerala Story (2023)
The Kerala Story drew significant controversy for its claims about Hindu and Christian women allegedly being lured into joining ISIS. Initially, the film claimed that 32,000 women from Kerala were converted to Islam and recruited by ISIS. This claim was later retracted, and the description was changed to focus on three women. Critics accused the film of being a propaganda tool aimed at creating communal discord, while supporters, including BJP leaders, defended it. The film faced bans in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu but was tax-exempt in a bunch of BJP-ruled states.
3. Maharaj (2023)
Maharaj, directed by Nikhil Mahajan, faced legal hurdles before its release. The Gujarat High Court initially halted the film’s release due to objections from the Vaishnavite Pustimargi sect, which felt that the film misrepresented their religious beliefs. The court eventually allowed the release on Netflix after a detailed examination. The film’s portrayal was deemed non-offensive, and the release was cleared, but the controversy highlighted the sensitivities around religious representation.
4. Brahmastra: Part One – Shiva (2022)
The release of Brahmastra: Part One – Shiva, directed by Ayan Mukerji, was marred by boycott calls and controversies. Issues arose from Alia Bhatt’s remarks on ‘boycott culture,’ which some found insensitive, and an old video of Ranbir Kapoor talking about being a “big beef fan” offending those who revere cows. Ayan Mukerji later apologised for a scene where Ranbir’s character enters a Durga Puja pandal wearing slippers, which was perceived as disrespectful. Despite these issues, the film continued to generate significant attention and debate.
5. Emergency (TBD)
Kangana Ranaut’s film Emergency, which she also directed, has faced backlash primarily from Sikh groups over its portrayal of Khalistani separatist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Sikh organisations argue that the film misrepresents historical facts and could incite communal tensions. The trailer, featuring a controversial dialogue attributed to Bhindranwale, has been met with demands for a ban from Sikh groups, including the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. The film’s September 6 release has been postponed pending further review and certification.
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