MUMBAI: Bollywood, the Indian film industry, finds itself at the centre of a heated debate that sheds light on what some describe as the questionable practices of the so-called "Bollywood Mafia. The recent turmoil stems from disruptions during the much-anticipated screening of PanchKriti: Five Elements at Mumbai's renowned Maratha Mandir Cinema on August 27, 2023. As public protests grow over the involvement of film critic KomalNahta and broader issues of inequality in the industry, the clash between this alleged 'Mafia' and the creators of the film has attracted significant attention.
Recognizing that this film introduced a unique global strategy, the Bollywood elites orchestrated the removal of "PanchKriti" banners from numerous theaters. Maratha Mandir Cinema hall is one of them, celebrated for showcasing beloved Bollywood classics, holds a special place in the hearts of movie enthusiasts. Therefore, it came as a shock to audiences when chaos marred the screening of PanchKriti: Five Elements.
Further, an article was published by the Film Information website, whose chief editor is Mr. KomalNahta. This article contained only disrespectful and defamatory statements, which reeks of prejudice. Creating divisions in society, stating the audiences as upper and lower strata and making baseless claims to discourage the public from watching the movie. This orchestrated effort aimed to derail the film just as it was gaining momentum and appreciation in the market, ultimately targeting its success.
It's disappointing to witness such a narrow-minded perspective in an industry that should be fostering diversity and fresh perspectives. Success in the film industry should be based on talent and hard work, not on arbitrary distinctions like being an outsider or an insider, as discriminated by Nahta.
The producer, hailing from a reputed and cultured family, stands out as an ethical and astute producer. Her commitment to social betterment is evident through initiatives like the "JeevDaya and Anukampa Program." She has staunch advocacy for national programmes addressing issues such as female feticide, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, women's empowerment, and BetiBachaoBetiPadhao. All these issues are promoted immensely by the prime minister, Modiji. Her PanchKriti five elements—a commercial film celebrating the essence of BharatiyaGraminSanskriti and Sabhyata—stand as a testament to her resolve to impart traditional values, foster awareness, and catalyse societal progress. In addition to the film, she has devised an innovative and unique strategy to foster societal betterment, offering valuable prizes like TVs, laptops, smartwatches, and cycles to three lucky draw winners from every show in PAN India theatres where the movie was released.
Her visionary approach involves harnessing commercial platforms to promote national programmes, with a particular focus on uplifting rural India and supporting start-up companies and single-screen eaters. In doing so, she passionately believes in nurturing the abundant pool of young talent that India possesses.
As the nation watches this unfolding drama, one thing is certain: the debate about the influence of the Bollywood Mafia and the need for inclusivity in the film industry is far from over. It's time to understand that people from all walks of life contribute to the growth and innovation of this industry, and such divisive rhetoric only hinders its progress.
- VidishaGolecha
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