Kangana Ranaut’s upcoming film, ‘Emergency’, has sparked a new controversy ahead of its September 6 release. The movie, in which Ranaut plays former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, features a character that has drawn the ire of the Sikh community.
A scene in the film depicts a character saying, “If you give us Khalistan, we will get you votes.” The character is believed to be based on Saint Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, the head of Damdami Taksal. This has led to outrage among Sikhs, with the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the supreme body of Sikhs, demanding a ban on the movie.
Sikh Community Outraged Over Film's Portrayal of Saint Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale #EmergencyTrailer pic.twitter.com/fuN6PgI7eM
— THE TIME PRESS (@thetimepress_) August 26, 2024
Sardar Satnam Singh Gambhir, President of the Eastern Zone of the All India Sikh Student Federation (AISSF), has also expressed his strong objections to the film. “The movie is trying to distort historical facts and hurt Sikh sentiments,” Gambhir said. “We will not allow this film to be released and will take all necessary steps to ensure it is banned.”
The controversy has put the film’s release in jeopardy, with many Sikh organizations threatening to protest if the movie hits theaters. Kangana Ranaut and the film’s producers have yet to respond to the growing backlash.
This is not the first time ‘Emergency’ has been embroiled in controversy. The film has been criticized for its portrayal of Indira Gandhi and its perceived bias towards the ruling party. With the latest controversy, it remains to be seen if the film will be able to overcome the hurdles and reach audiences.
Report by Prem Kumar Srivastava & Jaswinder Singh
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