In a move set to broaden the horizons of inclusive cinema, the makers of “Gadar 2: The Katha Continues” are all set to re-release the high-octane action drama with Indian Sign Language (ISL) interpretation. This strategic and thoughtful initiative aims to make the cinematic experience accessible to the deaf community across India. Mark your calendars for August 4, when the reinterpreted version will be showcased in select theatres nationwide, ensuring that viewers with hearing impairments can enjoy the film starring Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel, and Utkarsh Sharma.
When the movie initially released in August 2023, it did more than just entertain; it captured hearts and shattered box office records. Directed by Anil Sharma, this sequel to the 2001 blockbuster “Gadar: Ek Prem Katha” was a resounding success. It was then that the fan base for Sunny Deol, who plays the iconic character Tara Singh, became evident. The film’s popularity showcased not just its star power but also the unwavering affection from its audience.
This wave of admiration caught the attention of India Signing Hands (ISH News), a Mumbai-based non-profit organization focused on improving accessibility for the deaf community. In February, ISH News reached out to Zee Studios and PVR-Inox Pictures with a heartfelt request: many in their community were ardent Sunny Deol fans eager to savor “Gadar 2.” Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the studios wasted no time in collaborating with the NGO to bring this vision to life. Over a span of two months, ISL experts meticulously dubbed the entire movie, ensuring every detail was captured for the enjoyment of the hearing-impaired audience.
Sunny Deol, whose portrayal of Tara Singh has etched an indelible mark on his fans, expressed his deep satisfaction with this inclusive endeavor. “Gadar 2 has always held a special place in my heart, and to see it adopted for a re-release with Indian Sign Language interpretation is beyond overwhelming,” Deol shared. He emphasized the critical importance of empathy and understanding when addressing the accessibility needs of the deaf community. “This move will allow the film to touch the hearts of more audiences, and it’s something the entertainment industry should strongly advocate for,” he added.
Ameesha Patel, who reprises her role as Sakina, also voiced her enthusiasm about the re-release.
. “It feels great to bring Sakina’s story back to the big screen for an audience that seldom gets the full cinematic experience,” she said. Patel echoed Deol’s sentiments, stressing the necessity for movie-viewing to be an inclusive activity.
Umesh Kr Bansal, Chief Business Officer of Zee Studios, underscored the company’s commitment to accessibility. “Making cinema accessible for all is a priority for us,” Bansal stated. He informed that while the current plan is a week-long re-release, there is potential for an extension based on audience reception and demand.
The industry has seen a commendable increase in efforts to ensure inclusivity, but there’s always more room to grow. The re-release of “Gadar 2” with ISL interpretation is a step towards normalizing the inclusion of differently-abled individuals in mainstream entertainment. This move not only celebrates the spirit of the film but also honors the fan base that spans across different abilities.
To facilitate a wider audience reach, extensive marketing campaigns are being launched. Trailers and teasers featuring ISL interpretation will be made available online, increasing awareness and anticipation among prospective viewers. The response from the deaf community has already been overwhelmingly positive, as seen in various social media interactions and message boards.
Experts believe that such initiatives set significant precedents, encouraging other filmmakers and studios to take similar steps in their productions. The retelling of stories with inclusivity in mind should no longer be an exception but a norm, marking a progressive shift in the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, this re-release is not just an event but a milestone in making cinema a joyous, shared experience for everyone. It highlights the transformative power of films to unite diverse audiences under one screen, embracing the slogan that everyone deserves the joy of movies. This initiative by the makers of “Gadar 2” is a clarion call for inclusivity, an appeal to put empathy and creativity at the heart of filmmaking.
