AAs a writer myself, I find the power of cinema and the visual arts invaluable to delve deeper into thought-provoking ideas. sanjay puran singh chauhan latest movie, 72 hurain, is a film that explores the complexities of Muslim identity, Islamic terrorism and institutional propaganda. The film, releasing today, tells how Muslim clerics propagate the idea that martyrdom can be achieved through jihad or suicide attacks and is rewarded in heaven with 72 virgin Apsaras. The film has received criticism for stereotyping Muslims and encouraging hate speech.
However, considering the film’s focus on Islamists and terrorist group ideologues and scholars, it is important to look at the film from a nuanced perspective.
Let’s make one thing clear – until a work of art generalizes the 200 million Muslims around the world and instead focuses on Islamists, terrorist group ideologues and scholars propagating extremist beliefs, there is no point in faith. Followers should not have any problem with this. But in a case where some Muslims interpret it differently and oppose the premises of the artwork, it calls for deeper introspection rather than simply censoring the piece of art.
It is not uncommon for Islamists and communists to portray any form of critical discourse around Islam as an attack on Muslims. This requires us to make a distinction between the pursuit of extremist ideologies and the condemnation of Islam. By engaging in critical dialogue and understanding the nuances of artwork, Muslims can contribute more productively to socio-cultural debates.
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embroiled in controversy
2007 Pakistani film for god’s sake Addressed ideas of terrorism, normalization of the Muslim community and even interpreted theology with sensitivity and maturity. In tune with the realities of Islamic fundamentalism and the Muslim experience, the film faithfully portrays the victims of terrorism and how innocent Muslims, caught in the face of extremism and opposition from the clergy, pursue their faith.
Muslims should understand that if they appreciate films Parzania (2005), which to a large extent negatively generalises Hindus, should also oppose anti-films that they feel negatively generalise them. One cannot argue for banning a film unless it clearly incites violence against a group or individual. It is the responsibility of the Indian state to protect the fundamental right to freedom of expression guaranteed by the Constitution.
consider movies like Firaq (2008), Destroy (2006), my name is Khan (2010), k files (2022), and story of kerala (2023), which was targeted by both left-wing and right-wing groups. Keeping in mind the freedom of expression, is it fair that we should ban them? Shouldn’t we be promoting dialogue and understanding between different communities?
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a perfect makeover
Over the past few years, with the release of k files, story of kerala, and now, 72 Hurain, There has been a remarkable change in the Hindi film industry. Previously, films mostly represented the majority Hindu community (although critics would find this controversial), but now, they address the second largest religious community in India – Muslims. Some argue that this change is a reform, as Bollywood had previously exposed extremism within the Hindu community and spoken out against Hindu communalism. Now, it is not shying away from addressing inconvenient truths about the Muslim community.
This change in narrative reflects the current times when Hinduism as a philosophy and political ideology is gaining prominence and has become a central tenet of many political campaigns. Proponents see it as a civilizational revival that balances secularism in India, while critics see it as a direct threat to other religions.
I see the growing popularity of Hindutva as a golden opportunity to present the soul of India between two opposing views, which can make a more productive contribution to society. Reconciliation requires open and honest dialogue while discussing the harshest realities, so that the ghosts of the past can be put to rest. This approach allows all communities to express their differences with each other in confidence and remove communal disharmony.
movies are easy targets
In the past, there have been instances where the Muslim leadership has demanded censorship of books, art or films they considered blasphemous or controversial, such as Kamal Haasan’s Vishwaroopam (2013) and Mani Ratnam’s Roza (1992). In the past, Hindu intellectuals, reformers, thinkers and artists have sought critical portrayals of their practices prevalent in the community. But this self-criticism and openness has been lacking within the Muslim community; Opposing views often face threats.
Some such uncritical opposition is also evident among Hindu extremists, who call for a boycott of films. Destroy And Pathan (2023),
So, in many ways, the unpredictability of protests has made films easy targets.
The ban on art reflects not only a sense of dictatorship but also a reluctance to introspect and consider alternative perspectives. Fruitful communication plays an important role in maintaining a free society and fostering a creative culture. Throughout history, the arts in various forms – literature, theatre, painting, sculpture, music and dance – have served as powerful tools for expressing ideas, feelings, social progress, imagining new possibilities for humanity, problem-solving and enhancing quality. Worked as a tool. human life.
Can India, with its diverse population consisting of Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Jews, develop a collective and evolved mindset where critical reasoning is appreciated without fear of backlash? ? Or will Hindus always be expected to hold the torch of freedom of expression while critically examining wrongs within their community?
Amana Begum Ansari is a columnist and TV news panelist. She runs a weekly YouTube show called ‘India This Week by Amaana & Khalid’. She tweets @Amana_Ansari. Thoughts are personal.
(Edited by Humra Laeek)