Actor-filmmaker Kangana Ranaut’s much-anticipated political drama ‘Emergency’ has hit a significant roadblock at the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). In a video message circulated on social media, Ranaut fervently addressed rumours suggesting that her film has been cleared for release. “This is not true. In fact, our film was cleared earlier, but its certification has been halted due to several threats,” she declared. This revelation pivots the spotlight back on ‘Emergency,’ a film already shrouded in controversy and protest from various quarters.
The film, a hard-hitting thriller set against the backdrop of the 1975 Emergency in India, has been the epicentre of public and political discourse. A section of the population has expressed strong opposition to the content, leading to heightened tensions. Kangana, who notably serves as a Parliamentarian from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, divulged that the threats extend not just to her but also to CBFC members.
Furthermore, the film faces immense pressure to undergo significant cuts. Controversial scenes, such as the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the involvement of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, and the subsequent Punjab riots of 1984, are under scrutiny. Addressing these demands, Kangana rhetorically questioned, “I don’t know what we will show then—just a blackout in the film? This is an unbelievable time for me, and I am sorry for the state of things in this country.” This pointed commentary underscores the fraught atmosphere surrounding the film’s release.
‘Emergency,’ initially set to hit theatres last October, has now been rescheduled for a September 6 release. However, hurdles continue to mount. Recently, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) intervened, issuing a legal notice to the CBFC. The notice demands an immediate halt to the film’s release, citing concerns that it could incite communal tension and propagate misinformation, especially concerning the Sikh community’s portrayal.
The film industry is closely watching this unfolding drama, particularly as it illuminates the ongoing struggles filmmakers face in balancing creative expression with socio-political pressures. The episode also sheds light on the complex dynamics within the CBFC, an institution tasked with navigating the delicate balance between artistic freedom and public sentiment.
In other news, despite facing a setback with the underwhelming performance of ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan,’ director Ali Abbas Zafar seems to have retained the backing of his mentor, Aditya Chopra. Ali, whose repertoire includes successful ventures like ‘Mere Brother Ki Dulhan’ (2011), ‘Gunday’ (2014), ‘Sultan’ (2016), and ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ (2017)—all produced by Yash Raj Films—is poised for a comeback with the prestigious studio.
. Although details about the upcoming projects remain under wraps, industry insiders speculate that Zafar may helm ‘Super Soldier,’ featuring the popular Katrina Kaif. This potential collaboration underscores a renewed focus on original content designed for the silver screen.
Meanwhile, Rajkummar Rao celebrated his 40th birthday amid the excitement surrounding his upcoming film. To mark the occasion, the makers unveiled the title and first look of the film, directed by Pulkit. The movie, aptly named ‘Maalik,’ introduces Rao as a ferocious gangster, a character he has yet to explore in his diverse acting career. The intense thriller is currently in production, with a rigorous filming schedule planned across northern India. Sharing his enthusiasm on social media, Rao posted, “Welcome to Maalik’s world. The shoot has begun, and we will meet soon.”
However, not all news in Bollywood is promising. Tiger Shroff’s career trajectory appears to be in jeopardy following a string of box office flops, such as ‘Heropanti 2,’ ‘Ganapath Part 1,’ and ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan.’ Reports have emerged suggesting that his project, ‘Hero No 1,’ directed by Jagan Shakti, has been indefinitely shelved, with only 20 per cent of the film completed. Shakti is reportedly moving forward with another project featuring Ajay Devgn. With concerns over budget viability due to Shroff’s recent performance, high remuneration, and costly entourage, the only film on his docket is currently ‘Baaghi 4.’
Lastly, singer Shreya Ghoshal has postponed her Kolkata concert to express solidarity with recent assault victims in the city. In a heartfelt social media post, she conveyed, “I am deeply affected by the gruesome and heinous incident that recently took place in Kolkata. As a woman, the thought of the sheer brutality she must have endured is unthinkable and sends shivers down my spine. With an aching heart and deep sorrow, my promoters and I have decided to reschedule our concert, originally set for September 14, to a date in October. It is absolutely imperative for me to take a stand and join you all in solidarity.”
Overall, the landscape of Indian cinema remains dynamic, marked by both setbacks and new opportunities. The prevailing controversies, creative struggles, and moments of solidarity capture the continually evolving narrative of the film industry.
