Acclaimed filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar recently shared his thoughts on the ongoing boycott culture in the Bollywood industry during a conversation with Maniesh Paul on his podcast. The director, known for his films like Chandni Bar, Fashion and Page 3, talked about how the audience’s perception of the industry has changed after the untimely demise of actor Sushant Singh Rajput in June 2020.
Boycott Culture in Bollywood Industry
According to Madhur, the audience’s anger towards the industry has intensified after Sushant’s death, although the boycott culture is not a new phenomenon in the industry. He noted that people still go to theaters to watch movies when the content is good, regardless of the boycott. Madhur believes that if the film has strong content, people will go to watch it, even if there is a section of the audience that boycotts it.
Sushant Singh Rajput's Death and Impact on the Film Industry
Sushant Singh Rajput, who was from a non-film background, had struggled to make a name for himself in the industry. His sudden death shocked many of his fans and followers and some of them took to social media to express their anger towards the film industry. Madhur speculated that the industry may have ignored Sushant, which could have contributed to the public’s anger towards it.
Madhur's Own Experience with Opposition to his Films
The director Madhur faced backlash from political groups for his film Indu Sarkar, which depicted the Emergency era. This happened a few years before the trend of boycotts gained momentum. Madhur expressed his disappointment in the lack of support he received from the film industry during this difficult time, feeling as though he was fighting a solitary battle. The incident highlights the importance of solidarity and support within the industry, particularly during times of controversy or opposition.
Final Thoughts
Madhur’s insights on the impact of Sushant Singh Rajput’s death on the audience’s perception of the film industry and his own experiences with opposition to his films offer a glimpse into the complex and ever-evolving relationship between Bollywood and its audience. As the industry continues to navigate this changing landscape, it will be essential to foster greater understanding, solidarity and accountability among all stakeholders.
Madhur Bhandarkar’s comments about the impact of Sushant Singh Rajput’s death on the audience’s perception of Bollywood reflect the larger conversation that has been going on within the industry. The untimely passing of the actor sparked a renewed interest in the inner workings of the film industry, with many questioning the way things are run and how actors are treated.
The boycott culture that Madhur spoke about has become increasingly prevalent in recent times, with social media playing a significant role in amplifying the voices of those who want to hold the film industry accountable. Many have taken to platforms like Twitter and Instagram to express their grievances, with some even calling for a complete overhaul of the way the industry operates.
Madhur’s observation that the industry may have ignored Sushant Singh Rajput is not an isolated one. Many have pointed out that actors who come from non-film backgrounds often have a more challenging time making a name for themselves in the industry, and their struggles are not always recognized or acknowledged by those in power.
In recent years, there have been several instances where actors have spoken out against the way they have been treated by the industry. Kangana Ranaut, for example, has been vocal about the nepotism and favoritism that she has faced in Bollywood, while actor Abhay Deol has called out the practice of endorsing fairness creams in the industry.
The conversation around the film industry’s workings is not a new one and it is likely that it will continue to be a topic of discussion in the years to come. While the boycott culture may have its pros and cons, it is undoubtedly true that the public’s opinion has become a powerful force in shaping the future of Bollywood. As such, it is incumbent upon the industry to listen to its audience and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all actors, regardless of their background.
What according to you is the reason for the boycott Bollywood trend? Let us know in the comments!
