'Batwara 1947': Rajkumar Santoshi defends film against 'propaganda' allegations
What's the story
Filmmaker Rajkumar Santoshi has defended his latest film Batwara 1947 against allegations of being pro-Pakistan. In an interview with PTI, he said, "I have never made a propaganda film, nor will I ever do so in the future." "I only make films that I feel need to be shared with the audience." The movie was released on August 14 and received mixed reviews.
Film's theme
'Humanity above all religions'
Santoshi told the outlet, "This film focuses on humanity, where one character is Hindu, and another is Muslim."
"I also believe that humanity stands above all religions."
The film stars Sunny Deol as Sikander Mirza and Shabana Azmi as an old Hindu woman, Mai.
It tells the story of a Muslim refugee family from Meerut to Lahore during the Partition.
Their lives are disrupted when they find out that an elderly Hindu matriarch still lives in their new home.
Director's view
'No religion advocates for bloodshed or violence'
Santoshi said, "I've never been afraid (to make a film) because my conscience is clear and my intentions are pure. I harbor no ill will."
"I'm pro-India and pro-humanity."
He added, "Why would I ever wish for the destruction or downfall of any nation?"
"Whether it is Pakistan, America, Japan, or anywhere else where people reside...There is no reason to isolate Pakistan."
"No religion advocates for bloodshed or violence; yet, there are some who exploit religion for their own interests."
Casting controversy
'Aren't Muslims human beings?'
Addressing criticism over casting Deol as a Muslim character, Santoshi said, "In Batwara, you will get to see everything you expect from a Sunny Deol film, except for the fact that he plays a Muslim character; you can't reject on basis of that."
"Aren't Muslims human beings? Isn't their pain and suffering real? Isn't their anger justified?"
"Sunny represents a specific community here, but as a good Muslim. The film attempts to convey the true essence of Islam."
Actor's dedication
'We were also very scared...'
Santoshi praised Deol's performance in Batwara 1947, calling it his best so far.
He revealed that the preparation for the role was intense and included a Muslim priest on set to help Deol with the nuances of language.
"We were also very scared, so that it doesn't go wrong, and that it doesn't hurt anyone's sentiments because our intention is very good," Santoshi said.
The film has grossed ₹49 crore in its first week since release, per Sacnilk.