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Kangana Ranaut's upcoming film 'Emergency', a biographical drama about former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's declaration of a state of emergency in 1975, has ignited a firestorm of controversy, particularly among the Sikh community in Punjab and beyond. The film, directed and produced by Ranaut herself, has drawn ire for its alleged portrayal of slain Sikh militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale as an ally of Indira Gandhi, a claim vehemently contested by Sikh leaders and activists.
The trailer of 'Emergency', released on August 14th, showcases Bhindranwale promising to bring in votes for Indira Gandhi's Congress party in exchange for a separate Sikh state. This depiction has been condemned by numerous Sikh organizations, including the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), and various independent Sikh leaders. They argue that the film's portrayal misrepresents the Sikh community and promotes hatred and discord, painting a negative and inaccurate picture of their history and beliefs.
The Delhi unit of SAD has filed a legal notice with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), seeking to halt the release of 'Emergency' on September 6th. The notice alleges that the film's content is deeply offensive to the Sikh community and could potentially incite violence and unrest. Similarly, Sikh hardliner Sarabjit Singh Khalsa, an independent MP from Faridkot, has urged the Punjab government to ban the film within the state to prevent any law and order situation. The SGPC has also demanded an apology from Ranaut and the film's producers, calling for the trailer to be removed from all platforms.
The controversy has extended beyond Punjab, with the Telangana government also contemplating a ban on 'Emergency'. The Telangana Sikh Society, citing the film's allegedly derogatory portrayal of Sikhs, has submitted a report to the state government, demanding immediate action. The society claims that the film depicts Sikhs as anti-nationals and terrorists, a narrative they find deeply offensive and potentially harmful.
Kangana Ranaut, in response to the growing criticism, has defended her film, stating that it aims to present a truthful depiction of history. She has also expressed frustration with the CBFC, claiming that despite receiving a censor certificate, she is being denied its release. Ranaut has further stated that the film aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Indira Gandhi's assassination, emphasizing that someone must have been responsible for her death.
The controversy surrounding 'Emergency' highlights the sensitive nature of historical narratives and the potential for films to fuel tensions and exacerbate existing societal divisions. It also underscores the power of cinema to shape public perception and its ability to influence cultural understanding. While Ranaut maintains that her film is based on historical facts, the Sikh community's strong reaction underscores the importance of historical accuracy, sensitivity, and responsible storytelling in cinematic productions. The outcome of this controversy remains uncertain, but it is evident that 'Emergency' is poised to be a significant cultural event with far-reaching consequences.
Source: What Is The Controversy Around Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’? Why CBFC Has Been Asked To Ban It