The much-anticipated release of Kangana Ranaut’s film, ‘Emergency,’ has been postponed indefinitely following serious threats against members of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film, which was originally slated for release on September 6, 2024, has yet to receive its final clearance from the board due to escalating tensions and threats of violence.
Death threats force delay
According to Kangana Ranaut, an actor-turned-politician and director of the film, the delay was prompted by death threats received by CBFC members. These threats have created a tense situation, prompting the board to halt the certification process. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh confirmed the postponement of the release on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating, “#BreakingNews…#Emergency postponed… Won’t release on 6 Sept 2024. #ZeeStudios #KanganaRanaut.”
Controversial content sparks outcry
The controversy surrounding ‘Emergency’ primarily centers around its portrayal of sensitive historical events and figures, including the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the role of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, and the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Punjab. These portrayals have drawn criticism from several quarters, particularly from the Sikh community, who argue that the film presents a biased and negative depiction of their history.
Political and legal challenges
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), a prominent political party, has also taken legal action against the film’s release. They issued a legal notice to the CBFC, urging them to stop the film from hitting theaters, citing concerns that it could incite communal tension and unrest. The party claims that the movie’s content is unjust to the Sikh community and has the potential to disturb the peace.
In addition to this, Sikh community leaders have expressed their concerns over the film’s release in various states, including Telangana. The Chief Minister of Telangana, Revanth Reddy, has assured these leaders that his government will consider banning the movie in the state, pending legal advice. Meanwhile, a Sikh organization has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Madhya Pradesh High Court, seeking a complete ban on the film’s release.
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Kangana Ranaut’s response
Kangana Ranaut, who also stars in the film and represents Mandi as a Lok Sabha MP, has expressed her distress over the situation. She stated that she is under significant pressure to remove certain controversial scenes from the film. In a public statement, Ranaut voiced her dismay over the current situation, stating she is “deeply troubled and saddened by the current state of affairs in the country.” Despite the backlash, she remains hopeful that ‘Emergency’ will be cleared for release soon and suggested that the film could hit theaters within the next 10 days, although a final date has yet to be confirmed.
Impact on production and promotion
The delay in certification has had a significant impact on the film’s production team and promotional activities. A source close to the film’s development told Zoom that the producers were expecting the necessary clearance by the end of the week. However, the continued delay has forced them to postpone the release, leading to wasted resources and financial losses in marketing and promotion efforts.
Future uncertain for ’emergency’
As the controversy surrounding ‘Emergency’ grows, the future of the film remains uncertain. The film’s postponement has not only affected its release schedule but has also raised broader questions about creative freedom and censorship in Indian cinema. With legal battles looming and communal tensions high, the release of ‘Emergency’ appears to be in a precarious position, waiting on both judicial decisions and CBFC clearances.
Until these issues are resolved, the film’s fate remains in limbo, leaving audiences and stakeholders alike eagerly awaiting the next developments in this ongoing saga.
