The makers of “Gadar 2” unveiled the movie’s trailer on Wednesday, which created a storm on the internet as fans went gaga over it, reminiscing about the memories of the original “Gadar” released in 2001. However, an old interview of Shabana Azmi is now going viral, where she expressed her views against the movie, particularly concerning its portrayal of Muslims.
In 2001, Shabana Azmi spoke to The Times Of India and said, “I believe Gadar is a provocative film.I don’t agree with its aesthetics or its sensibility. I question the sagacity of making the film at a time when efforts are being made to ease the tension between India and Pakistan. Gadar positions Muslims as the other. The father of the girl is not a mere villain in the screenplay; he subliminally reinforces the canard that any Muslim is automatically a Pakistani!”
She further remarked, “The film is designed to be provocative, as it confuses issues of nationalism, religion, and identities, without delving into the complexities of the pain that the Partition created. However, I don’t agree with the view that the Partition should not be addressed as an issue. I believe we need to confront its complexities to heal the wounds and prevent us from making the same mistakes again. The film ‘Garm Hawa’ is a shining example of this.”
In response to Shabana Azmi’s remarks, Sunny Deol expressed his disappointment in an interview with Filmfare. He said, “Shabana Azmi’s comments really disappointed me. She’s supposed to be educated and well-read, and yet she goes ahead and makes inflammatory statements against the film. Those who made noise about the film were only seeking attention. The success of ‘Gadar’ proves that there was nothing wrong with it… its public acceptance has silenced everyone with negative opinions.”
Sunny Deol further clarified, “Of course, I was upset. The story was set during the Partition, but there was no intention to hurt anyone’s feelings or stir up trouble. The two main protagonists are very pure and innocent. Those who thought the film projected an anti-national stance or aimed to hurt religious sentiments have warped minds.”
“I’m a mature man. I’d never do anything to hurt anyone’s religious sentiments. My grandparents witnessed the Partition, and I’m aware of what happened. I’d never want such a holocaust to be repeated ever again,” concluded the actor.
As for “Gadar 2,” it serves as a sequel to the cult film “Gadar,” continuing the story of Tara Singh and Sakina that ended in 2001.