Historian Makkhan Lal defends Kangana's 'Emergency,' says it's 'fact-based'
What's the story
The controversy surrounding Kangana Ranaut's upcoming film Emergency has sparked intense debates about its depiction of historical figures and events.
Amid this, historian Makkhan Lal, who was engaged as a "subject expert" by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), has defended the film.
In an interview with India Today Digital, he clarified that the movie does not portray former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in a negative light.
Film's defense
'Does Bhindranwale represent the entire Sikh community?'
Lal questioned the outrage over the portrayal of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a contentious figure opposed by several Sikh organizations.
He asked, "Does Bhindranwale represent the entire Sikh community? If so, why do other figures from the community, such as former Congress Chief Minister Beant Singh or Parkash Singh Badal, differ from him?"
"Why is criticizing Bhindranwale seen as an insult to the Sikh community?"
Film's defense
Lal questioned, who shot Mrs Indira Gandhi?
Further defending the film, Lal stated, "Who shot Mrs. Indira Gandhi? If they were Sikhs, that is a fact. How can this be denied?"
"The film is entirely based on facts, and they haven't altered the truth. I would say the filmmakers are very sympathetic to the issue depicted."
"While every political leader has flaws, the film doesn't show the negative aspects of Gandhi's character." However, he refrained from providing further details as the matter is currently before Bombay HC.
Film's status
'Emergency' awaits certification amid Sikh community's concerns
In response to concerns raised by members of the Sikh community, the censor board convened a revisionary committee.
The committee has instructed the filmmakers to make certain cuts and insertions before receiving certification. The filmmakers have not yet decided on this, and the Bombay High Court will be informed by Monday.
Earlier, the CBFC had directed cuts to which the filmmakers had agreed.
Release delay
'Emergency' release delayed due to certification issues
Emergency, directed by Ranaut, was initially scheduled for release on September 6 but has been postponed due to the lack of CBFC certification.
The film also features Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Mahima Chaudhry, Milind Soman, Vishakh Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik.
A final decision on the certification will be taken by the CBFC on Monday (September 30), which may pave the way for its release.