Annu Kapoor, once celebrated for roles in films like Mandi, Utsav, and Mr. India, recently stirred controversy by targeting Shah Rukh Khan’s Chak De! India. Kapoor claimed the film inaccurately portrayed the true story of hockey coach Ranjan Negi and went on to criticize Bollywood for allegedly favoring positive Muslim portrayals while villainizing Hindu characters. His remarks immediately drew backlash, with many viewing them as a cheap stunt to regain lost fame.
Smita Prakash and ANI’s Role in Sensationalism
In media coverage, ANI’s Smita Prakash has also been criticized for leaning towards divisive topics, especially those that stoke Hindu-Muslim sentiment. Such discussions not only provoke public outrage but often lead to misinformation, polarizing communities and encouraging baseless narratives. Guests, sensing the platform’s interest in communal angles, often contribute to inflammatory content, seeking their share of publicity by targeting minority communities.
Critique of Kapoor’s Intentions
Given Kapoor’s fading popularity and his earlier claims, it’s apparent that his comments are aimed at garnering attention. From complaining about on-screen rejections to making sweeping statements about Bollywood’s portrayal of religious communities, Kapoor appears to be leveraging controversy as a tactic to stay relevant. His remarks undermine the industry’s diversity and talent, reducing complex portrayals to mere religious bias.
Media’s Responsibility in Avoiding Divisive Narratives
Platforms like ANI hold a significant responsibility in maintaining objectivity. Encouraging communal topics and sensational remarks from guests not only deteriorates journalistic integrity but also fuels societal divides. This responsibility extends to journalists who should discourage inflammatory commentary rather than promoting it.