📌 Key Points
- Javed Akhtar questions the negative connotation of ‘propaganda films’.
- He praised the film ‘Dhurandhar’ despite its ‘propaganda’ tag.
- Akhtar argues all films inherently take a stand or propagate an idea.
- ‘Dhurandhar’ faced criticism for allegedly glorifying the BJP administration.
Veteran lyricist-writer Javed Akhtar has sparked debate by defending ‘propaganda films,’ asserting that all cinema propagates ideas. He specifically lauded ‘Dhurandhar,’ a film often labeled as such, questioning why expressing ideas through film should be deemed problematic.
Akhtar Challenges ‘Propaganda’ Label
Legendary lyricist-writer Javed Akhtar has taken offence to the term ‘propaganda films’, saying all films have the right to propagate ideas, while expressing praise for Dhurandhar , the Aditya Dhar directorial that has battled this tag ever since release.
The veteran screenwriter-turned-lyricist added that one cannot label a film propaganda just because it does not suit a section of the audience. “Every story takes some stand, but does it become propaganda because the narrative isn’t suited to a section of the audience? Everyone has the right to propagate their ideas. What is wrong with propaganda films? The task of every filmmaker is to present the truth. Even if the narrative of a movie is built on a fairy tale, it will have some ideology in a way,” he added.
The Dhurandhar Controversy Explained
Javed Akhtar was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the P C Chandra Puraskar, which recognises exceptional achievement across diverse fields. The award show, held in Kolkata, was given away by a leading jewellery brand.
While the films were praised for their slick narrative, many complained that they seemed to glorify the BJP administration while downplaying the achievements of previous governments. This led to the propaganda charge. The director has not yet addressed the claims.
Filmmakers’ Right to Ideas
The two films also star Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Rakesh Bedi, and Sara Arjun. Dhurandhar: The Revenge is currently playing in theatres.
Akhtar’s bold stance challenges conventional views on film’s purpose, suggesting that every narrative inherently carries an ideology. His defense of ‘Dhurandhar’ highlights the ongoing discussion about artistic freedom versus perceived political messaging in cinema.
