Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s latest cinematic creation, “Animal,” has not only surpassed expectations at the global box office, raking in an astounding Rs 563.3 crore in its first week but has also ignited a fierce debate within India’s parliamentary halls. Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Anil Kapoor, and Rashmika Mandanna, the film has faced criticism for its alleged misogyny and excessive depiction of violence, prompting Congress MP Ranjeet Ranjan to raise the issue in the Rajya Sabha during the Zero Hour.
Despite its staggering commercial success, a faction of both critics and audiences has condemned the film for its controversial themes. Ranjeet Ranjan emerged as a vocal critic during the parliamentary debate, expressing deep concerns about the potential impact of such content on the impressionable minds of the youth.
Ranjan passionately voiced her critique, highlighting an incident where her daughter and other children were visibly distraught during the film, leading her to leave the theatre midway due to the distressing content. She emphasized the film’s endorsement of violence and misogyny, labeling it as disgraceful, and called on the entertainment industry to acknowledge its societal responsibility in shaping cultural perceptions.
The debate extended to the film’s soundtrack, particularly the popular song “Arjan Vailly,” which became entangled in political circles. Ranjan criticized its use by the BJP during recent celebratory events, pointing out its inappropriate portrayal in the context of a gang war. She expressed dissatisfaction over the song’s association with a narrative she deemed unfitting, especially considering the historical significance of Arjan Singh Nalwa.
“Animal” explores the complexities of a tumultuous father-son relationship against a criminal backdrop and secured an ‘A’ certificate from the CBFC before its release. Produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar’s T-Series, Murad Khetani’s Cine1 Studios, and Pranay Reddy Vanga’s Bhadrakali Pictures, the film has found itself in a box office clash against Meghna Gulzar’s “Sam Bahadur.”
The controversy surrounding “Animal” has sparked profound debates on the responsibility of storytellers and the influence of cinema on societal values. It has initiated a broader conversation about the ethical nuances of storytelling and its impact on impressionable audiences, raising questions about the need for greater awareness and responsibility within the entertainment industry.
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