Bollywood’s Hinduphobia: Known as the world’s largest film industry, Bollywood has long been showcasing the different histories and cultures of India through films. However, in recent years, a disturbing image of Hinduphobia has emerged in mainstream cinema. This has raised lines of concern among the Hindu community regarding the representation of their religion and culture.
Negative portrayal of Hindu characters, symbols and traditions in films has become a culture in today’s movies. In view of this, Bollywood is also being accused of promoting anti-Hindu sentiments.
While portraying Hindu culture in a derogatory manner is not something new in Bollywood, it has been repeated time and again in recent years. Films like PK (2014) and Oh My God (2012) not only raised questions about Hindu religious practices but also created controversies by mocking them. What is important is that these people have avoided dealing with other religions like this one. This discrimination has led to accusations of bias and double standards.
The recent web series ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’, which dramatizes the 1999 Indian Airlines hijacking, has become the latest example of this controversial slant. The film has received considerable criticism for its portrayal of the terrorists involved in the hijacking, many of whom are given explicitly Hindu names. This creative choice has raised serious questions about the intentions behind such depictions.
Controversy in ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Kidnapping’
The real hijackers of IC 814 were Islamist terrorists, but the film chose to depict these characters with Hindu names. The decision has been seen as an attempt to distort historical facts and malign the Hindu community. Critics argue that such depictions not only distort history, but also reflect something that unfairly stigmatizes Hindus.
The use of Hindu names for terrorists in IC 814 is not an isolated incident, but part of a broader pattern in Bollywood, where Hindu symbols and figures are often associated with negative connotations. Many argue that this trend is harmful, as it shapes public perception and reinforces harmful stereotypes.
However, Netflix assured the Indian government that it will be sensitive to the nation’s sentiments during a recent meeting with government officials. But the question is, is this enough?
Hinduphobia in Bollywood
The constant portrayal of Hindus as villains or extremists in Bollywood films has wider social implications. This fosters a sense of alienation and resentment within the Hindu community, who feel that their faith is being unfairly attacked. It also contributes to a divisive environment in a country that prides itself on its secular and inclusive values.
Films such as Padmaavat (2018) also faced criticism for their portrayal of Hindu Rajput warriors, with some arguing that the film glorified the adversary while diminishing the valor and dignity of Hindu heroes. Similarly, a popular web series, Sacred Games (2018), used Hindu symbols such as the trident and the Bhagavad Gita in scenes that many found offensive and misleading.
Selectively targeting Hindu traditions, while avoiding criticism of other religions, suggests a pattern of Hinduphobia that Bollywood must address. This is not just a question of creative freedom, but of responsible storytelling that respects the sensitivities of all communities.
Respect and justice are necessary
There needs to be a more balanced approach to the portrayal of Hindu characters and culture in Bollywood. While it is important to critique and question practices within any religion, it must be done with respect and fairness. The selective attack on Hinduism, as seen in ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’ and other films, only serves to deepen social divisions and promote harmful stereotypes.
For Bollywood to truly reflect India’s diversity, it must ensure that all communities are portrayed with the dignity and respect they deserve. The industry has a powerful influence on public perception, and with that power comes a responsibility to avoid perpetuating bias and prejudice.
As the debate over Hinduphobia in Bollywood continues, it is important for filmmakers to take a more honest approach in telling their stories, one that upholds the values of inclusion and respect for all religions.
The post X below lists some of the many Bollywood movies that have been found to be deliberately trying to defame Hindus over the decades. In such a situation, it is up to you to decide whether it is a mere coincidence and creative freedom or a deliberate conspiracy.
#Bollywood It has either changed its identity or deliberately denigrated Hindus for decades. Here are 10 cases! You will find the same hate-filled fanatics if you check its producers, directors, scriptwriters…
1/10 photo.twitter.com/2bdBksQqA7
— Eminent intellectual (@total_woke_) September 1, 2024
Courtesy of the author: Love Gaur
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