FLAGGING A DEBATE
Bollywood is divided on the SC ruling that the National Anthem must be played in theatres in India
The Supreme Court’s latest ruling that the National Anthem must be played in theatres before film screenings has garnered mixed reactions from the film industry. While many feel it would help instill a feeling of patriotism, there’s also scepticism that it might become a political agenda.
A PIL was filed by Shyam Narayan Chouski, who runs an NGO in Bhopal, seeking parameters on what amounts to abuse of the anthem. His petition was considered by the SC after a man on a wheelchair was assaulted by a couple at a theatre in Panaji, Goa, for not standing up during the anthem. Acting on the petition, the SC has ordered that all must stand when the anthem is played, and the national flag must be shown on the screen.
Film-makers Boney Kapoor, Madhur Bhandarkar, Prakash Jha, Kunal Kohli, Nimrat Kaur, Taapsee Pannu, Neetu Chandra, Rajniesh Duggall, Ali Abbas Zafar and Arjan Bajwa were all praises for the ruling. “Jai Ho! I sing it most proudly wherever I get the opportunity,” said Jha. “I’m sure everyone can stand for a minute to respect the country,” says Kapoor. “In the ’70s, they used to play the anthem in halls. Today’s judgment is a proud moment for every Indian,” says Bhandarkar.
Playing the National Anthem before a film begins has been a practice in Maharashtra since 2003. “It should be a reflex action. No court should tell anyone to respect the National Anthem,” says Kohli. “I don’t know if it will influence anyone... (But) I’m really happy,” says Pannu.
However, not everyone sees a rosy picture. “It’s a good decision, but there should also be a law holding those who get aggressive when others can’t get up during a National Anthem responsible. They pretend as if its nationalism, but it’s not that. It’s hooliganism,” says TV personality Raghu Ram. Director Ken Ghosh agrees. “I hope it doesn’t lead to insults to people who genuinely cannot stand up.” Film-maker Onir thinks the diktat is “ridiculous”, but says: “It’s been there in Mumbai for so long...so maybe the rest of the country should also be in sync.”
It’s something that is inherent to us and we should all be proud of it. It’s a great decision. NIMRAT KAUR, ACTOR
I don’t mind standing up and being a part... But I find it ridiculous; why does patriotism have to be thrust down your throat. ONIR, FILM-MAKER