In a recent turn of events, the release of the Gujarati film “Kasoombo” on February 16 has reignited debates over censorship practices within Bollywood and the actions of the censor board. The film, known for its historical narrative, has found itself embroiled in controversy following claims made by its director regarding alleged interference from the censor board based on its pro-Sanatan content.
During a media interaction session, the director of “Kasoombo” accused the censor board of pressuring him to remove Hindu shlokas from the film prior to granting certification for public exhibition.
The director, identified as Vijaygiri, asserted that the censor board mandated the exclusion of Shlokas from the Gita and the Mahishasur Mardini Stotram, citing their unsuitability for theatrical presentation. Interestingly, scenes featuring the invader Khilji reciting the Kalma were reportedly approved without issue.
Vijaygiri revealed the struggles encountered with the censor board, disclosing that uncertainty loomed over the film’s release until February 15. Expressing dismay over the perceived bias, he emphasised the illogicality of censoring a movie based on its pro-Sanatan content.
“They sacrificed 51 lives for Sanatan. I expect people will pass on the message of this movie,” Vijaygiri remarked, urging audiences to spread awareness and support for “Kasoombo.”
He’s @VijaygiriBava, a Gujarati movie director. He alleges that the censor board forced him to remove Geetha shlokas, Mahishasur Mardini Stotram, and other Hindu shlokas from his movie #kasoombo but cleared a scene in which Kalma was being recited.
Despite his efforts to… pic.twitter.com/RP2EgW30hW
— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) February 20, 2024
Set against the backdrop of Allauddin Khilji’s campaign to desecrate sacred temples and cultural landmarks at Shetrunjay, “Kasoombo” narrates the tale of Dadu Barot’s unwavering stand against overwhelming adversity. The film pays homage to the valour and sacrifices of 51 villagers who defended the Shetrunjay temple complex against Khilji’s onslaught, underscoring their commitment to safeguarding Sanatan Dharma.
Critics have pointed out the apparent bias of the censor board, highlighting its tolerance towards Islamic references while objecting to Hindu religious verses. The controversy surrounding “Kasoombo” raises broader questions about artistic freedom and censorship in the Indian film industry, prompting calls for transparency and equitable treatment in the certification process.
Announcing Kasoombo the film
Releasing on 16th February 2024#Kasoombo #NewFilm pic.twitter.com/c5L2fvpB3C— Vijaygiri Bava (@VijaygiriBava) October 24, 2023
As audiences await further developments, the debate over the portrayal of religious themes in cinema continues to resonate, reflecting deeper societal tensions and diverging interpretations of cultural heritage.
In a similar film released in January, “Annapoorani: The Goddess of Food” stirred controversy with its portrayal of a Hindu temple pujari’s daughter engaging in Islamic practices during a cooking competition. The lead character, depicted wearing a Hijab, was shown offering Islamic prayers (Namaz) as part of the storyline. The film also faced criticism for its alleged misrepresentation of events from Valmiki’s Ramayan and the depiction of the revered Hindu deity Bhagwan Ram. Despite objections, the film received approval from the censor board.
The narrative of “Annapoorani: The Goddess of Food” revolved around an aspiring chef from a Brahmin family who aspires to master the art of cooking non-vegetarian cuisine. Secretly enrolling in a culinary school, she eventually enters a cooking competition with aspirations of becoming a Corporate Chef.
A crucial scene in the film occurs during the cooking competition, where the protagonist is challenged to prepare Biryani. Recalling advice from her college days, where a Muslim woman claimed that offering Namaz before cooking enhances the taste of food, the lead character dons a Hijab and performs Namaz before commencing cooking. The scene is accompanied by music featuring lyrics invoking spiritual themes.
In another scene, the lead’s boyfriend, Farhan, encourages her by citing verses from the Ramayan to justify non-vegetarianism. He recites Sanskrit verses, referencing Valmiki’s account of Bhagwan Ram, Lakshman, and Mata Sita consuming meat during their exile (Vanvas) when hungry. Despite Farhan’s persuasion, the lead initially hesitates to cook meat due to her background as the daughter of a Hindu pujari.
Subsequently, amid mounting controversy, two FIRs were filed, targeting both the creators of the film and the platform where it was released. In response to the backlash, the makers and the platform issued apologies and revised the contentious scenes in the film.
