The much-talked-about biographical film ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar,’ starring Randeep Hooda in a pivotal role, has reportedly encountered significant delays and challenges with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) up until the eleventh hour before release.
In what can be described as a moment of trepidation for the producers and actors involved, the approval process for ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’ hit a snag due to alleged CBFC bottlenecks. Sources close to the development disclosed that the stumbling blocks persisted until the evening before the official release date. The CBFC, which holds the authority to issue certifications that determine the eligibility of films for public exhibition in India, finally granted the censor certificate for the Hindi version merely around 2 pm yesterday.
The implications of this delay extended beyond the Hindi version, as regulations mandate that certification for films in additional languages can only be pursued after clearance is obtained for the main language version. This procedural nuance signifies that the filmmakers could only begin applying for the certification of the Marathi adaptation of the biopic that same afternoon. This development has provoked critical conversations regarding the operations of the CBFC, with the suggestion from an insider that the board’s officials deliberately delayed the certification process, thereby placing the Marathi release at risk and fostering a climate of contention and criticism towards the regulatory body.
The timing of these clearance issues emerges as curious given that earlier this month, the film’s trailer was launched without hints of such hindrances. During this event, Randeep Hooda offered insights into his character, the esteemed freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, and the intent behind the movie itself. Hooda emphasized that the film aimed to subvert the longstanding propaganda against Savarkar, refuting the derogatory label ‘maafiveer’ (apologist) often associated with him. The actor elaborated that many incarcerated individuals at that time, including Savarkar, engaged in the standard legal process of filing mercy petitions and bail pleas, a right inherent to prisoners seeking justice and freedom.
Hooda further expounded on the essence of Savarkar’s endeavors, noting that his protagonist sought release from the shackled confines of the Andaman’s Cellular Jail to contribute to India’s cultural and political spheres. The actor also spotlighted Savarkar’s instrumental role in spearheading secret societies in pursuit of India’s armed struggle for independence. Through the medium of film, Hooda expressed conviction that Savarkar’s authentic narrative is on the brink of liberation from the ‘jails of perception,’ giving audiences the opportunity to re-evaluate and embrace the true story of this polarizing historical figure.
The release of ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’ marks an important moment in cinematic storytelling, capturing the complex life of one of India’s most enigmatic and controversial leaders. Despite bureaucratic and certification hurdles faced in the final run-up to its debut, the film succeeds in bringing to the silver screen today, on March 22, 2024, a tale that promises to spark debate, reflection, and, perhaps, a reassessment of the legacy left behind by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Audiences across the nation are expected to line up to bear witness to this portrayal that intertwines history with the artistic vision of its creators, and in turn, partake in the unfolding conversation on freedom, legacy, and the power of cinema.
