Nelson Lopes
Ever since the new Government came to power, the nation seems to be embroiled in myriad of controversies. Minimum interference and maximum Governance is on the back foot. We are directed what to eat, what to wear and now what to see., Intolerance on all aspects of life is increasing. Polarisation is destroying the secular fabric of India. The intelligentsia, writers, award winners have expressed publicly their disgust The initial euphoria, expectations have all but vaporised into oblivion of history.
The raging debates on cinema have engulfed the nation. The best recourse is reasonable discussions and legal intervention .Taking law into own hand and resorting to unprecedented violence, intimidation, threats is uncivilised, barbaric in 21 century, democratic India. The Government is having a ringside view, abdicating its responsibility to secure law and order. If the content is not palatable and affront to sensibilities, then boycott the movies in protest. Forcing individual perceptions of culture and tradition is unwarranted.
History has many angles depending upon the philosophy, ideology, personal bias. The writers of history therefore differ in their judgments and description, focusing on what suits them the best in their purpose. The argument and broadside of hurting public sentiments is a myth. Passing such extreme views without even seeing the films is ignorance at its best. There are many films that may hurt some ones religious or cultural sentiments, but the approach of dissent has to be civilized. If fringe groups and lumpen elements masquerading as moral police and custodian of cultural traditions are given a free reign, then it abhors ill for the society and rule of law.
It is a moot point to consider what those who vouch for the valour of immolation of Padmavati have done to keep her memory and propagate her greatness. At best she is dead in the pages of the history books, now resurrected somewhat by the producer. The silence of the Govt machinery with eye on votes and lack of will to control the violence is evident per se.
The censor board and rule of law cannot be held hostage to violence unleashed by the fringe groups Sting operations have laid bare the motives and intentions for considerations and publicity. The institutions responsible for the standards of public good must not be overridden with personal judgments. Those that are clamoring for the cultural accuracy will do well to research history and bring out an authentic documentary in praise and glory of Padmavati. It may also ascertain the official status of her position in relationship. The film has placed Padmavati on the pedestal of recognition after centuries of lying in dormant.
