The Indian film industry sometimes seeks controversy, with religious sensitivities at the core with the latest movie being Annapoorani. However, this is not the first time that it has intended to hurt Hindus. Here are several films that have been accused of hurting Hindu sentiments.
Annapoorani:
1. Derogatory Comments against Bhagwan Ram and Non-Vegetarian Food:
Controversy: The objection centers around a scene depicting Bhagwan Ram, Sita, and Lakshman consuming non-vegetarian food. The dialogue was spoken to a Hindu girl, attempting to persuade her to cook and eat non-veg food.
Reason for Concern: The depiction of famous Hindu deities consuming non-vegetarian food was criticised by some for being offensive to religious feelings.
2. Namaz Before Making Biryani:
Controversy: Another scene involves a character stating, "The taste improves when you cook it after praying," followed by the character performing namaz before making biryani, implying that it becomes tastier.
Reason for Concern: Some viewers found this portrayal insensitive, as it appeared to mix religious practices in a way that might be considered inappropriate or disrespectful.
Adipurush:
Controversy: Manoj Muntashir Shukla’s dialogues in "Adipurush," particularly those involving Lord Hanuman, received criticism. Examples include lines like “Kapda tere baap ka, tel tere baap ka! Jalegi bhi teri baap ki” and “Jo humaari beheno ko haath lagaega, unki lanka laga denge”.
Reason for Concern: Many viewers found the use of casual and aggressive language in the dialogues of a revered Hindu deity inappropriate and disrespectful, considering it a departure from the traditional portrayal of such characters.
Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013):
Controversy: The controversy surrounding "Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela" was primarily related to the use of the term "Ram-Leela" in the title.
Reasons for Concern: Some individuals and groups objected to the use of the term "Ram-Leela" in a non-religious, romantic context, feeling that it could be perceived as disrespectful to the traditional Ram Leela performances that depict the life of Bhagwan Shri Rama.
PK (2014):
Controversy: "PK" generated controversy for its satirical portrayal of various religious practices. In one scene, Aamir Khan's character, PK, questions the practice of idol worship and highlights the use of different symbols for different gods.
Reasons for Concern: Certain groups found these scenes offensive, interpreting them as a mockery of Hindu practices. The questioning of idol worship and portrayal of different gods using symbols
Padmaavat (2018):
Controversy: The film faced protests and controversies, particularly from the Karni Sena, for its alleged distortion of historical facts and portrayal of Queen Padmavati.
Reasons for Concern: Some groups claimed that the film depicted a romantic relationship between Queen Padmavati and Alauddin Khilji, which they argued was historically inaccurate and disrespectful to Rajput sentiments.
Lajja (2001):
Controversy: In "Lajja," a controversial scene involved Anil Kapoor's character being shown as a journalist who witnesses a riot outside a temple. The scene depicted a character named Maithili (played by Manisha Koirala) taking refuge in a temple, seeking protection from a violent mob.
Reasons for Concern: The controversy stemmed from the portrayal of Hindu characters and the suggestion that a temple, which is considered a sacred place in Hinduism, could be the site of violence. Some groups found this depiction disrespectful to their religious sentiments.
Water (2005):
Controversy: Directed by Deepa Mehta, the film faced opposition for its portrayal of the lives of widows in Varanasi.
Reasons for Concern: Some groups felt that the film presented a negative view of Hindu customs and traditions, particularly those related to widows.