The South India Times
(Our Special Correspondent)
Kolkata: Yesteryear super star Amitabh Bachchan on Saturday has brought back the debate on growing ‘intolerance’ and throttling of ‘freedom of expression’ to the centre stage for a debate.
Was he targeting the Vivek Agnihotri of “Kashmir Files?” Though, he did not take his name, it was obvious when he said this; “the current brand of period films as ‘couched in fictionalised jingoism”. The actor is usually known to refrain from commenting on political issues on public platforms said it, while inaugurating the 28th Kolkata International Film Festival
He recalled the contribution of Indian cinema in fostering social unity, communal amity and love at a time when “cultures are being questioned and prejudices against communities are dividing the world”.
“The Indian cinema from its beginning has taught us the lessons of finding love, justice and social unity. And most importantly the banishment of communal prejudices and hatred,” Bachchan said
“It is essential to recall the lessons of equality and cultural diversity taught by Rabindranath Tagore at a time when cultures are being questioned and prejudices against communities are dividing the world.”
The 73-year-old star said that Bengal’s strength always has been its intellectual integrity and open-mindedness that both writers and filmmakers have highlighted on the screen. “These age-old values are once again being highlighted in Indian cinema. These values constantly emphasise deep belief in equality and social justice,” the actor said.
Quoting from Tagore’s poetry, Bachchan said the Bard’s lines should be remembered for “signifying Mother India’s unconditional love for all children and are relevant in holding together India’s diversity and the spirit of equality.” Bachchan’s comments come amid the ongoing debate on intolerance in the country which has led to several writers, filmmakers and eminent personalities returning their awards.
The actor said he feels truly blessed to be born in a country which has always believed in cultural diversity and pluralism. While lauding the contributions of Bengali cinema and its various stalwarts, he said their movies uphold tolerance of diversities.
“Cinema with Bengali background have always put up pan India character based on our time-tested values, the source of our core strength as a society and our tolerance of diversities. That is essential for a common mosaic of various ethnic communities and sects.” In sharp contrast, in the past when writers, filmmakers and historians have revolted against a rising culture of intolerance towards freedom of speech, Amitabh Bachchan, who is a widely followed celebrity on social media platforms, says he’s always cautious. When asked he said he wish not share his views freely? “That’s a discretion I will exercise because there is certain vulnerability with celebrities,” the Big B explained. It was when several celebrities, writers and award winners expressing their displeasure returning their awards.
But what changed since then? Only, Amitabh Bachchan, with over 20 million Facebook fans, a Twitterati of 17.5 million, and a growing “extended family” on his blog,
