From Engineering to Controversy: Anubhav Sinha’s Journey and the 'IC 814' Backlash

The recent release of the web series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack on Netflix, which began streaming on August 29, has ignited a considerable controversy. The series, starring Vijay Verma and Patralekha—who is married to Rajkummar Rao—has faced intense scrutiny and backlash due to its depiction of terrorists bearing Hindu names. This portrayal has led to widespread calls for a boycott of the series, prompting a governmental response.

Check out! How Anubhav Sinha runs away from a question asked by a reporter on why he has deliberately hidden the true names of Pakistani Islamic terrorists and made some change after I&B Ministry's directions on the issue in series #ic814thekandharhijack pic.twitter.com/apc7xC6Spj

— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) September 3, 2024

The controversy has escalated to the extent that the Indian government summoned Netflix's content head for an explanation. In response to the mounting pressure, Netflix is now contemplating revisions to the series. Amidst the furore, the series' director, Anubhav Sinha, has also come under the spotlight. To better understand the context, here is a detailed overview of Anubhav Sinha, including his educational background, pre-Bollywood career, and financial standing.

Educational Background

Anubhav Sinha, the creative force behind the contentious series, was born on June 22, 1965, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to Prem Govind Sinha and Sushila Sinha. He completed his schooling at Government Inter College in Prayagraj. Sinha then pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Aligarh Muslim University, graduating in 1987. His educational journey at one of India's esteemed institutions laid a foundation that would eventually support his career in filmmaking.

Early Career and Transition to Filmmaking

After completing his engineering degree, Anubhav Sinha spent two years working in the engineering sector. He then relocated to Delhi, where he continued his engineering career for an additional two years. However, driven by a passion for filmmaking, he moved to Mumbai to embark on a new career path.

In Mumbai, Sinha began his career in the film industry as an assistant director under Pankaj Parashar. His directorial debut came with the film Tum Bin in 2001. Although this film did not achieve significant commercial success, it paved the way for his future endeavours. Sinha garnered substantial recognition with the release of Ra.One (2011), a sci-fi film starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan.

Notable Films and Career Achievements

Over the course of his 23-year career, Anubhav Sinha has directed and produced several notable films. His work includes critically acclaimed titles such as Article 15, Mulk, Thappad, Bheed, Anek, and Gulaab Gang. Each of these films has contributed to his reputation as a prominent filmmaker in the Indian film industry.

Netflix has finally added real names of Pakistani Hijackers who were Islamist terrorists responsible for 1999 #IC814 hijacking.1. Ibrahim Athar2. Shahid Akhtar Sayed3. Sunny Ahmed Qazi4. Mistri Zahoor Ibrahim5. ShakirScreen Grab from Anubhav Sinha #NetflixIndia series.… pic.twitter.com/4zzzibM6hI

— Neeraj Roy Kumar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@NeerajRoyKumar) September 4, 2024

Wealth and Personal Life

Anubhav Sinha is married to Ratna Sinha, a fellow director known for her work on films like Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana. Together, they form a notable pair in the film industry. Anubhav Sinha's net worth is estimated to be between 36 and 40 crore INR, reflecting his successful career and contributions to Indian cinema.

- PTC PUNJABI