The recent stampede at the premiere of Allu Arjun starrer Pushpa 2 at Sandhya Cinema, followed by the ignorant release of the song “Dammunte Patukora” amidst the tragedy, has raised serious questions about the ethical responsibilities of filmmakers and celebrities. Beyond the immediate incident, this controversy questions the broader role of cinema in shaping societal values and influencing culture.
Cinema’s intersection with glamour-driven lifestyles has created an environment where the line between art and superficiality often blurs. The dominance of Page 3 culture, with its relentless focus on celebrity lives and sensationalism, has resulted in excessive focus on superficial markers of success above meaningful storytelling.
The ethical responsibilities of celebrities must extend beyond the glamour of their professions, particularly in an era where social media and Page 3 culture magnify their lives as the nation continues to grapple with various issues, such as the politicisation of values, national integrity, etc. By supporting more meaningful causes and using films as a medium of social messaging, celebrities can transform their influence from superficial allure into a genuine force for good. This recalibration would reinforce cinema’s potential as a moral compass for society.
Paralley, films in India often transcend entertainment, subtly embedding ideologies and shaping public opinion. Politicians, too, leverage cinema’s mass appeal to craft narratives that align with their agendas. The increasing trend of celebrities using their fame as a shortcut to enter politics raises concerns about the integrity of politics. The trend of film stars entering politics often highlights how fame can take priority over genuine commitment to public service or strong ideological beliefs – an important prerequisite of political democracy and sound policymaking. Unlike leaders who rise from the ground, many stars transition into politics without first working at the grassroots level for societal welfare, reducing governance to a spectacle rather than a meaningful pursuit of public good.
The entry of celebrities like Prakash Raj and Kamal Haasan into politics highlights the misuse of fame to bypass ideological commitment and grassroots engagement. While vocal on issues like governance, their rhetoric often lacks depth and actionable solutions.
For instance, Prakash Raj’s criticism remains reactionary, while Kamal Haasan’s party struggles with vague policies and weak voter appeal. Politics demands vision and credibility, not just star power, to win people’s trust. Similarly, instances, such as the merger of Chiranjeevi’s Praja Rajyam Party with Congress, show how political moves sans ideological foundation can seem more about strategy than a true desire to serve people through meaningful contributions to politics. This reliance on stardom reduces politics to mere theatrics.
In contrast, in earlier times, figures like M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) and Jayalalithaa rose from the ground, followed a purposeful objective in politics and demonstrated how cinematic influence can complement a foundation in grassroots politics, striking a balance between mass appeal and effective governance. In contemporary times, leaders like Hema Malini are prominent examples of celebrities who, despite coming from an illustrious career, went on the ground and served to win people’s trust, consecutively reflected in her election victories and understood the deeper demands of a public service career.
The film industry, while influential, must not serve as a mere gateway to power. Public policymaking is a nuanced process demanding dedication, expertise, and accountability. The rising trend of superficial engagement risks diluting the democratic ethos, turning politics into a stage and neglecting the spirit of service it demands.
Glorifying certain historical figures in Bollywood films such as Jodha Akbar, Padmaavat or Tanhaji has fueled debates about how history and politics are intertwined within storytelling. These films reflect the duality of cinema as both a cultural influence and a political statement. At its core, cinema dictates cultural norms, influencing everything from fashion trends to societal attitudes. Yet, the glorification of values such as toxic masculinity and reckless behaviour in characters like Pushpa raises concerns about the traits being celebrated. Films like Kabir Singh, Animal, etc., have previously drawn criticism for romanticising problematic behaviour, showing how cinematic portrayals can influence public perceptions negatively. When these portrayals dominate, they risk normalising harmful ideals that ripple through society, influencing especially impressionable audiences.
Of late, cinema in India has witnessed a significant shift, breaking free from its traditionally regional confines and expanding its influence nationwide. The once-clear distinctions between Bollywood, Tollywood, and other regional industries are increasingly blurring, giving rise to a more integrated cinematic landscape. Southern films like KGF, RRR, Pushpa and Baahubali have garnered pan-India fan followings, showcasing their ability to resonate with audiences regardless of linguistic or regional barriers. This trend underscores the unifying power of cinema, fostering cultural exchange and national integration through shared narratives and grand storytelling.
Indian cinema has historically celebrated themes of unity and sacrifice, with films like Sankarabharanam and Baghban epitomising the importance of cultural richness, community values and familial bonds. However, the growing focus on individualism and sensationalist narratives mirrors societal changes. Thus, Indian cinema remains a unified force bridging linguistic, regional, and cultural divides. At a time when divisive forces loom large, shared cinematic experiences can promote harmony and resilience. Films such as Baahubali, Kantara, etc., are examples of successful appeal to nationwide audiences, transcending regional barriers and fostering cultural solidarity.
The legacy of films like Swades and Mother India further exemplifies cinema’s ability to inspire collective action and national pride. These narratives resonate universally, promoting values of inclusivity and resilience. As cinema embraces themes that align with the aspirations of a resurgent India, it can serve as a cornerstone of unity and progress. This calls for films to embrace universally resonant themes, fostering inclusivity and solidarity—not as an artistic luxury but as a societal necessity.
Governments, too, have a crucial role in ensuring cinema aligns with broader societal goals. Policies incentivising socially conscious storytelling, such as tax benefits for films addressing climate change, mental health, or national unity, can steer the industry toward responsible filmmaking. Additionally, stricter regulations for promotional events, such as those that could have averted the Pushpa 2 stampede, are essential to maintaining public safety without dampening the celebratory spirit of cinema.
The Pushpa 2 controversy is a wake-up call for the film industry, urging introspection and reform. As cinema evolves, it must balance commercial ambitions with ethical and social responsibility. This challenge is not a limitation but an opportunity for the industry to reclaim its historical role as a force for unity and progress.
By aligning with the aspirations of an India that values integrity, harmony, and collective excellence, Indian cinema can transcend its current challenges. It can once again become a beacon of hope and transformation, connecting hearts and minds while guiding society toward a brighter, more inclusive future.
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