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.
Javed Akhtar on ‘propaganda films’
While attending an award function in Kolkata on Sunday, the veteran writer interacted with the media, where he was asked his opinion about ‘propaganda films like Dhurandhar’. Using his trademark sharp wit, Javed Akhtar responded, “I don’t know what you mean by propaganda films. I loved Dhurandhar, which was an excellent film. I loved the first one more than the second one.”
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.
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.
Dhurandhar and the propaganda charge
Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar is a spy thriller that was released in theatres in December. Starring Ranveer Singh as an Indian spy in Karachi, the film was a critical and commercial success, grossing ₹1300 crore worldwide. The concluding sequel was an even bigger hit, becoming the first Bollywood film to net ₹1000 crore in India, and earning close to ₹1800 crore worldwide.
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.
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.