Don’t get volatile behaviour: Vaani on censorship & cancel culture
The recent ban on the release of ‘Abir Gulaal’ in India has sparked a heated debate about censorship and cancel culture in the country’s entertainment industry. Actress Vaani Kapoor has now spoken out on the issue, expressing her concerns about how these phenomena restrict artists’ freedom to explore new ideas and create content that resonates with audiences.
In an interview with a leading newspaper, Vaani Kapoor expressed her dismay at the increasing trend of cancel culture and boycotts in the country. She said, “This cancel culture, say one thing wrong, there are calls for cancel and boycott. I don’t get that volatile behaviour.” Her words are a reflection of the frustration and anxiety that many artists are feeling in the current climate, where even a minor misstep can lead to a massive backlash and a loss of reputation.
Vaani’s comments are particularly significant in the context of the ban on ‘Abir Gulaal’, which has been criticized for its perceived lack of sensitivity towards certain sections of society. While the film’s makers have apologized for any offense caused, the ban has sparked a wider debate about the role of censorship in Indian cinema. Vaani, who has spoken out against censorship in the past, believes that these restrictions can have a stifling effect on artists’ creativity.
“I’m not into censorship,” she said. “I think it sets boundaries for artists. Artists are meant to push boundaries, to explore new ideas and themes. Censorship can limit that creative freedom and lead to a lack of originality and diversity in our films.” Her words are a powerful reminder of the importance of artistic freedom and the need to balance sensitivity with creativity.
The debate about censorship and cancel culture is not limited to the entertainment industry, of course. These issues have become increasingly relevant in many areas of public life, from politics to social media. The rise of social media has given ordinary people a platform to express their opinions and mobilize around causes they care about. While this can be a powerful force for good, it can also lead to the demonization of individuals and the stifling of free speech.
Vaani Kapoor’s comments are a timely reminder of the importance of maintaining a balance between sensitivity and creativity. As artists, it is our job to push boundaries and challenge societal norms, but we must also do so in a way that is respectful and thoughtful. The ban on ‘Abir Gulaal’ is a case in point, as the film’s makers have been accused of being insensitive to certain sections of society.
Rather than resorting to cancel culture and boycotts, we should be encouraging open and respectful dialogue about these issues. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and diverse society that celebrates creativity and artistic expression. As Vaani Kapoor said, “Don’t get this volatile behaviour. Let’s have a conversation, let’s listen to each other, and let’s move forward.”
The ban on ‘Abir Gulaal’ may be a setback for the film’s makers, but it also presents an opportunity for artists to reflect on the role of censorship and cancel culture in Indian cinema. By speaking out against these phenomena, we can create a more open and inclusive industry that celebrates creativity and artistic expression.
