Gippy Grewal Emphasises on Sikh Representation in Censor Board Amid ‘Emergency’ Controversy: ‘Identify Religious Mistakes’

Renowned Punjabi film actor Gippy Grewal backed the idea of having a Sikh member of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The actor emphasized how crucial it is to have a Sikh representative on the board, particularly when it comes to approving movies that showcase Sikh people and their religion. The actor’s remarks about Sikh representative on the board, came amid the ongoing issue around Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency.’ The film has been delayed due to late certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Speaking to India Today, Gippy Grewal stated that CBFC is currently capable of recognizing many types of issues in a movie. But he also said that it’s crucial to let the movie pass via a member of the targeted religion to spot any religious inaccuracies. Using his movie as an example, the Punjabi superstar stated that he had shot it at Hazur Sahib in Maharashtra. Despite being a member of the community, he felt it was best for the Gurdwara management committee to see the movie first and grant an NOC (No Objection Certificate).
He said, “For those films, jinme Sikhism ka hai, community representation hai, Punjab ka representation hai, un filmon ke liye ye bahot zaroori hai. Like a lot of people shoot their films in Punjab, but they don’t know anything about Punjab (sic).”
“You’ll ask me, ‘what’s the benefit of having a Sikh member in the committee?’. I’ll ask you ‘what is the loss?’. It will, 100 per cent, help make things better. At least in those cases where they are representing Sikhs, talking about the community or commenting on religion (sic),” Gippy added.
About Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ Row
Kangana Ranaut, who plays former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the film ‘Emergency,’ had originally planned for a September 6 release. However, the actor-turned-politician announced that the political drama is still awaiting Central Board of Film (CBFC) clearance. Members of the Sikh community have expressed strong opposition to the National Award-winning actress’ film, arguing that it misrepresents the culture and incites hatred and social unrest by using false historical facts. They warned that the movie would cause conflicts between communities and the propagation of false information, so they filed an appeal with the Madhya Pradesh High Court to prevent its publication.
Emergency explores the biography of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who from 1975 to 1977 administered a 21-month Emergency.