Zoya Akhtar Takes On OTT Censorship: 'Why Is Love Controversial but Violence Acceptable?
Bollywood director Zoya Akhtar has once again sparked debate with her candid remarks on OTT censorship. During a recent session at ExpressO, Akhtar questioned the paradox in how cinema often portrays violence, exploitation, and sexual harassment against women without much objection
Renowned Bollywood director Zoya Akhtar, known for her cinematic brilliance and unapologetic candour, has once again found herself at the centre of attention. This time, her focus is on a pressing issue that continues to stir debate in the entertainment industry: OTT censorship. In her recent remarks, Akhtar highlighted the glaring contradictions that exist in the realm of on-screen content, questioning why certain forms of depiction are accepted while others are deemed controversial.
A Challenge to Conventional Censorship
In a thought-provoking session at ExpressO, Zoya Akhtar delved into the multifaceted nature of cinema, with particular emphasis on censorship. She reminisced about her own experiences growing up, watching films where scenes of violence, exploitation, and sexual harassment against women were prevalent. Such content, she noted, was often deemed acceptable for public consumption. However, Akhtar raised a pertinent question: if such disturbing scenes can be shown, why is a simple act of love, like a kiss, considered inappropriate?
Akhtar argued that cinema should not shy away from portraying love and physical intimacy between consenting adults. "Each director," she observed, "has a unique approach to storytelling." She cited Ramesh Sippy’s iconic film Sholay as an example, noting that the violence depicted in the film was groundbreaking for its time. Akhtar further questioned the message that such censorship conveys to the audience, particularly in a world where cultural norms vary significantly. "The French," she pointed out, "are far more accepting of nudity compared to Americans," highlighting the influence of cultural differences on censorship standards.
Zoya Akhtar: A Legacy of Cinematic Excellence
Zoya Akhtar’s contributions to Bollywood are nothing short of extraordinary. With a directorial portfolio that includes critically acclaimed films such as Gully Boy, Dil Dhadakne Do, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and Luck By Chance, Akhtar has solidified her position as a visionary filmmaker. Her works often explore complex human emotions and societal issues, challenging the status quo and pushing the boundaries of conventional cinema.
Akhtar’s perspective on censorship is informed not only by her professional experiences but also by her personal background. As the sister of actor Farhan Akhtar and the daughter of legendary lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, she has been surrounded by artistic influences from a young age. Javed Akhtar, himself a vocal advocate for creative freedom, has expressed his support for his daughter’s views, further amplifying the impact of her statements.
A Call for Open-Mindedness
Zoya Akhtar’s recent remarks serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of creative freedom in cinema. By challenging the inconsistencies in censorship standards, she encourages both filmmakers and audiences to embrace a more open-minded approach to storytelling. In a world where art is often a reflection of reality, Akhtar’s stance underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of what constitutes appropriate content.