New Delhi: The much-anticipated release of Kangana Ranaut’s upcoming political drama film “Emergency” has hit a significant roadblock. After the trailer’s release on August 14, the Gurdwara Committee expressed strong objections and sought an immediate ban on the film. The controversy stems from allegations that the movie, which focuses on late former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the political turmoil of 1975, potentially offends Sikh sentiments.
The initial release date of September 6 for “Emergency” has been postponed amid the escalating uproar and death threats aimed at members of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). As of now, the CBFC has yet to finalize its approval for the film, leading to heightened uncertainty regarding the new release date.
Kangana Ranaut, the film’s lead actress and an outspoken figure on social media, took to the platform X to clarify the current status of the film’s certification process. In a video posted on August 30, 2024, Ranaut addressed the swirling rumors, stating, “There have been rumors circulating that my film Emergency has been certified by the Censor Board. This is not true.” She further elaborated that the film had received initial clearance but the final certification process was disrupted due to death threats targeting CBFC members.
According to Ranaut, the sensitive nature of the content, particularly scenes depicting the assassination of Indira Gandhi, militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, and the Punjab riots, has pressured the filmmakers to reconsider how these elements are portrayed. She emphasized that their intent was never to offend but to bring to light a crucial chapter in Indian history.
While the CBFC grapples with these challenges, the issue has once again brought to the forefront the recurrent scrutiny the board faces regarding delays in film certification. Critics argue that these delays often conflict with the Cinematograph Act of 1952 and its associated regulations, potentially stifling creative freedom and delaying public access to films.
This year alone, the CBFC has been under fire multiple times for its protracted certification process. Filmmakers and industry insiders argue that the board’s painstakingly slow pace could be seen as an act of undue censorship, potentially harboring biases against films tackling controversial or politically sensitive subjects.
. The delays not only affect the film industry financially but also stymie the cinematic expressions of historical and contemporary narratives.
For “Emergency,” the stakes are particularly high given the film’s subject matter and the public’s curiosity about its depiction of one of the most controversial periods in Indian history. The film aims to showcase the complex interplay of political decisions, civil unrest, and personal struggles during the period of the Emergency (1975-77) declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Despite the turmoil, Kangana Ranaut remains resolute. In her video, she urged her supporters and the general audience to stand by the film, underscoring the importance of presenting and reflecting upon historical events, even those that are contentious. “Art must lead, not follow,” she said, advocating for the film’s release without compromising its core message.
Ranaut’s engagement with her audience on social media indicates a strategic move to garner public support amidst the volatile situation. The hashtag #Emergency, which she included in her social media posts, has been gaining traction, showing significant public interest and debate around the film.
The controversy surrounding “Emergency” also sheds light on the broader issue of creative censorship and political pressure within the Indian film industry. With an increasing number of films facing backlash over historical and political content, filmmakers are frequently caught in a balancing act between artistic honesty and socio-political sensitivities.
The delay in “Emergency” is not just a setback for Kangana Ranaut and her team but also sets a precedent for the industry. How the CBFC handles the certification process moving forward will be crucial, potentially influencing how historical and political subjects are treated in Indian cinema.
As the controversy unfolds, industry watchers and audiences alike are keenly awaiting the CBFC’s final decision on “Emergency”. Meanwhile, the film’s postponed release has only heightened public anticipation, making its eventual premiere a pivotal moment for not only Kangana Ranaut but also for the broader discourse on censorship and creative freedom in Indian cinema.
