Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut has disclosed a major hurdle her upcoming film ‘Emergency’ is facing. In a video she shared on social media, Kangana revealed that the film is yet to receive its certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) due to serious death threats aimed at board members. Despite rumors that the film had been cleared, she clarified that it remains stuck in the certification process.
According to Kangana, these threats have exacerbated the difficulties in portraying significant historical events, including the assassination of Indira Gandhi and the roles of figures like Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. She expressed her frustration and shock at the current state of affairs in the country.
“There are rumors that our film ‘Emergency’ has received the censor certificate. This is not true. In reality, our film had been cleared but its certification process has come to a halt due to numerous threats. The censor board members have also been threatened. We face immense pressure not to depict Mrs. (Indira) Gandhi’s assassination, Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, and the Punjab riots. What else can we show then? I’m deeply shocked and sorry for how things stand in this country,” Kangana shared in her self-made video on X.
Threats to Kangana Ranaut
These revelations come shortly after Kangana received beheading threats from extremist Sikh groups following the release of her movie trailer. The threats have raised significant concerns about her safety and the safety of her team.
In a widely circulated video, an extremist Sikh individual issued a grave threat to Kangana, referencing the assassination of Indira Gandhi. He warned, “If Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale is portrayed as a terrorist in the movie, remember what happened to the person (Indira Gandhi) whose role you are playing. We will offer our head to Santji, and those who can offer their head can also chop others off.”
Just to note, Bhindrawale was a Khalistani militant who was killed during Operation Blue Star. In retaliation, Indira Gandhi’s bodyguards, Satwant Singh and Beant Singh, assassinated her on October 31.
Controversy around ‘Emergency’
Adding fuel to the fire, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has sent a legal notice to the CBFC, demanding the prevention of ‘Emergency’s release. They argue that the film may “incite communal tensions” and spread “misinformation.” According to them, the trailer incorrectly represents historical facts and negatively portrays the Sikh community, promoting hatred and discord.
Furthermore, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has also called for a ban on Kangana’s directorial venture. SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami criticized the film, saying that Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who Akal Takht Sahib recognizes as a community martyr, is portrayed inaccurately.
About the film
Despite these controversies, Kangana’s upcoming film ‘Emergency’ has captured public attention. The movie boasts a star-studded cast, including Anupam Kher, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishal Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik. Kangana herself takes on the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The film is set to hit theaters on September 6.
