Indian actor and outspoken activist Prakash Raj has come forward in support of Abir Gulaal, criticizing the ban of the film in India.
Prakash Raj has opposed the Indian government’s decision to stop the release of Fawad Khan’s Bollywood comeback ‘Abir Gulaal’, co-starring Vaani Kapoor.
“I don’t support the banning of any film, whether it leans right-wing or is seen as propaganda. Let people decide. Audiences are intelligent enough to choose what they want to watch”, said Raj.
Raj shared his stance that the film's banning will create fear and silence in society.
“We’re a democracy. If we begin banning films based on who’s acting in them or what they’re about, we’re headed toward cultural authoritarianism.
“Today, anybody can get hurt. ‘I’ll cut the nose of Deepika Padukone! I’ll behead her!’ Useey kya hoga (what effect would that have)?. Shah Rukh Khan… just because of a colour? Besharam rang na… they can make a hue and cry about anything they want and the present power are letting that happen, to create a fear in the society.
“They want to create fear. Films aren’t being made. Central censorship has taken over. It’s not just state pressure now – it’s systematic. When too much power is given to anyone, they become intolerable", he added.
The romantic-comedy 'Abir Gulaal', was scheduled to hit worldwide theatres, including Pakistan, on May 9.
Abir Gulaal has been banned in India following the tension between two countries India and Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack.