Gurpreet Ghuggi's Take on 'Emergency' Controversy: Advocates for Fact-Based Filmmaking
Actor Gurpreet Ghuggi shared his candid thoughts on the postponement of the much-anticipated biographical political film 'Emergency,' starring Kangana Ranaut. Speaking at a promotional event for his upcoming Punjabi film 'Ardaas Sarbat De Bhale Di' in the national capital, Gurpreet emphasized the ethical responsibilities that come with filmmaking, cautioning against creating movies with hidden agendas.
Gurpreet, who was accompanied by his co-stars Gippy Grewal and Jasmine Bhasin, expressed his concerns about 'Emergency,' which was originally set to release on September 6 but faced delays due to issues with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film, still awaiting its censorship certificate, has also been the subject of a petition filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The petitioners argue that the movie includes scenes that could potentially offend the sentiments of the Sikh community, urging the court to have the film reviewed by an expert panel of Sikh intellectuals.
Reflecting on the controversy, Gurpreet stated, "The 'Emergency' film, which is currently under scrutiny, raises important concerns. We too belong to the same fraternity, and we make films for entertainment. However, it would be wrong to approach cinema with an agenda."
He further elaborated, "Cinema should not be misused. If I consider something right, that doesn't automatically make it so in cinema, especially when dealing with historical facts. When your research is lacking, the responsibility shouldn't fall on the audience or religious bodies." Gurpreet also noted that certain elements in the film’s trailer warrant the objections being raised, expressing doubt that the movie would be released without further scrutiny.
Meanwhile, 'Ardaas Sarbat De Bhale Di,' the film Gurpreet is promoting, delves into the lives and struggles of its characters, highlighting the significance of Ardaas—a prayer that offers hope and solutions to life's many challenges. The film, written and directed by Gippy Grewal, features an ensemble cast including Prince Kanwaljit Singh, Malkeet Rauni, and Raghveer Boli. Produced by Gippy, Ravneet Kaur Grewal, Jyoti Deshpande, Kumar Mangat Pathak, Abhishek Pathak, and Divay Dhamija, 'Ardaas Sarbat De Bhale Di' is set to grace theaters on September 13.
- PTC PUNJABI