New Delhi: Acclaimed Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut is currently embroiled in fierce controversy over her forthcoming political drama, ‘Emergency’. Widely recognized for her compelling performances in films like ‘Krrish 3’ and ‘Manikarnika’, Ranaut now faces significant backlash from several Sikh organizations who allege that her new film offends Sikh sentiments.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the Akal Takht have vehemently called for an immediate ban on ‘Emergency’, asserting that the movie intentionally aims to undermine the Sikh community. They also demanded that a First Information Report (FIR) be filed against Ranaut, accusing her of orchestrating a ‘character assassination’ of Sikhs by depicting them negatively in the film.
Harjinder Singh Dhami, Chief of the SGPC, held a press conference on Wednesday to publicly criticize the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), accusing it of being ‘biased’. He insisted that the CBFC should include Sikh members in its panel to prevent such misrepresentations in the future. Raising concerns about the film distorting Sikh history and sentiments, Dhami highlighted how previous cinematic portrayals had also agitated the community.
Gyani Raghbir Singh, Jathedar (head) of the Akal Takht, echoed similar concerns. Singh emphasized that ‘Emergency’ disrespects the Sikh community, particularly targeting Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale, who is revered as a martyr by the Akal Takht. He criticized the government for its inaction against Ranaut, urging authorities to address what he perceives as incitement of religious discord.
The film ‘Emergency’, announced by Ranaut in 2021, delves into the political turmoil during former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s rule in 1975, a period marked by the controversial Emergency declaration that suspended civil liberties and imposed strict censorship. Despite the uproar, Ranaut has clarified that the film is a political drama rather than a direct biopic of Indira Gandhi. Besides serving in the lead role, Ranaut also directs the film.
The star-studded cast of ‘Emergency’ includes renowned actors Anupam Kher, Milind Soman, Mahima Chaudhry, and Shreyas Talpade. Talpade portrays Atal Bihari Vajpayee, while Kher assumes the role of Jayaprakash Narayan. The late Satish Kaushik is featured as former Deputy Prime Minister Jagjivan Ram.
. Initially scheduled for an earlier release, the movie has faced several postponements and is now slated for a theatrical premiere on September 6, 2024.
SGPC Chief Dhami did not hold back in his sharp critique of the CBFC, alleging that the board fails to adequately understand or respect Sikh sentiments. He called for a more inclusive approach to the certification process, advocating for the addition of Sikh representatives. This, he argued, would help ensure that films do not misrepresent or defame the community.
Gyani Raghbir Singh, in his address, also took a strong stance against the portrayal of Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale in the film. The Akal Takht considers Bhindranwale a martyr, and Singh expressed deep dissatisfaction with what he perceives as the film’s disrespectful treatment of a revered figure. He lambasted the government’s inaction, demanding immediate steps to mitigate what he characterizes as a provocation of religious sentiments.
Despite facing severe resistance, Ranaut has consistently maintained that ‘Emergency’ is intended to explore a crucial chapter in India’s political history without serving as a biographical account of Indira Gandhi. She emphasized that the film aims to offer a nuanced portrayal of the complex socio-political scenario during the Emergency.
The controversy surrounding ‘Emergency’ underscores the enduring sensitivity of depicting historical events and figures in Indian cinema. The film has not only sparked a debate over creative freedom and historical representation but also highlighted deeper fissures in how different communities perceive their portrayal in mainstream media.
As the release date approaches, it remains to be seen how ‘Emergency’ will be received by the broader audience. Will it navigate the tightrope of historical accuracy and artistic liberty, or will it succumb to the mounting pressure from Sikh organizations? Regardless of the outcome, the spirited debate it has ignited is likely to reverberate through India’s cinematic and political landscapes for months to come.
The ‘Emergency’ saga serves as a potent reminder of the power cinema wields in shaping public opinion and collective memory. With such high stakes, both supporters and critics of the film will have their eyes fixed on its impending release.
