Highlights
Kangana Ranaut’s much-awaited film ‘Emergency’, based on the 21 months of the state of emergency headed by Indira Gandhi, has finally got the U/A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The clearance has however come after a long time and more to a time that the government has been receiving criticisms from various Sikh organizations. Although this marks progress the specific release date of the film is yet to be announced. It has been claimed that the CBFC has demanded some cuts and put in place some disclaimers for historical portrayal. This development demonstrates the fine line that directors have to tread anytime they are shooting scenes that depict historical incidences.
CBFC Grants Conditional Approval
However, the CBFC has given the ‘Emergency’ a U/A certificate with some conditions which are as follows. It has been stated that the board has demanded the change of some scenes and the lacing of disclaimer regarding historical facts featured in the movie. This rating makes it possible for viewers of all ages even though parental guidance is advised. The certification process which started when the film was submitted on July 8 has been relatively lengthy, which has also led to the change of the initial intended release date of September 6.
Controversy Surrounding Sikh Portrayal
‘Emergency’ has received a lot of criticism from different Sikh groups such as the Akal Takht and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee which demanded the film be banned. The issue was over some scenes of the film which were shot long back and allegedly showed Bhindranwale, the slain Sikh militant, as having nexus with Indira Gandhi. This portrayal has also caused controversy regarding the historical representation of the event and the portrayal of Sikhs in the movie, creating yet another issue in the process of making this film.
Star-Studded Cast and Production Challenges
However, ‘Emergency’ has several controversies and delays in its making and finally, it has a stellar cast of Kangana Ranaut as Indira Gandhi, Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, and Satish Kaushik. Not only Ranaut is the leading lady in the film, butshe is also the director and writer of the film which shows her commitment towards the film. The production of the film has seen different time changes, the release date was initially set for November 2023 then moved to September 2024, and now again in the dark. These challenges raise the question of how politically sensitive historical narratives can be told on the big screen.
