New Delhi: Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut, best known for her roles in films like ‘Krrish 3’ and ‘Manikarnika’, is facing a lot of criticism over her upcoming political drama ‘Emergency’. The film, which focuses on former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the political turmoil of 1975, has been accused of hurting Sikh sentiments.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Akal Takht have demanded an immediate ban on the film, claiming it is deliberately aimed at undermining the Sikh community. They have also sought an FIR against Ranaut, alleging that the film is meant to “character assassinate” Sikhs by portraying them in a negative light.
SGPC chief Harjinder Singh Dhami addressed the media through a press conference on Wednesday and criticised the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), saying it is biased and advocated the inclusion of Sikh members in the censor board. Dhami expressed concern that the film misrepresents Sikh history and sentiments, reiterating previous complaints about the portrayal of Sikhs in cinema.
Similarly, Akal Takht jathedar (head) Giani Raghbir Singh claimed that the ‘Emergency’ insults the community and targets Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale, who is revered as a martyr by the Akal Takht. Singh also criticised the government for failing to take action against Ranaut, urging authorities to address what he saw as inciting religious sentiments.
Although Kangana Ranaut announced ‘Emergency’ in 2021, she later clarified that the film is not a direct biopic of Indira Gandhi but a political drama. Ranaut not only stars in the film but also directs it. The cast includes Anupam Kher, Milind Soman, Mahima Chaudhry and Shreyas Talpade, with Talpade playing the role of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Kher playing the role of Jayaprakash Narayan. Late Satish Kaushik will be seen in the role of former Deputy Prime Minister Jagjivan Ram.
Originally scheduled for release earlier, ‘Emergency’ has been postponed multiple times and is now scheduled to release in theatres on September 6, 2024.
