Pa Ranjith Challenges Right-Wing Bias in Film Censorship

A Fiery Stance Against Censorship

Chennai’s film community recently witnessed a bold critique by acclaimed Tamil film director Pa Ranjith, who accused the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) of harboring a right-wing bias. Speaking at the pre-release event for “Thandakaaranyam,” Ranjith declared his determination to continue producing cinema that resonates with the masses, despite facing what he described as a “hostile environment” for filmmakers.

The Hostile Environment for Filmmakers

Ranjith painted a picture of the current certification board as overly scrutinizing and searching for hidden messages in films, leading to an unfavorable atmosphere for filmmakers. “The way they look at us, talk to us, and handle us as soon as we come in is terrible,” he remarked, alluding to a broader global shift towards right-wing dominance. This shift, he argued, contrasts with a time when film subtext went largely unnoticed by all but intellectuals.

OTT Platforms Present New Challenges

Further elaborating on the obstacles faced, Ranjith discussed issues with Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, which have become hesitant to host potentially controversial content due to external pressures. This trend, according to Ranjith, places filmmakers in a precarious position, as the security of having a film on these platforms is no longer guaranteed.

Taking Cinema Direct to the People

In a defiant move against these hurdles, Ranjith championed the idea of bypassing institutional barriers by presenting films directly to the public. “When OTT fails, we go to the people,” he proclaimed. His mission is to venture into uncharted narrative territories, addressing the pressing crises confronting society today.

A Hopeful Appeal for Public Support

Ranjith concluded with an appeal to audiences, urging them to support films that challenge the norm and foster dialogue. “We hope that by supporting such films, you will give us a hand and lift us up,” he stated, positioning public backing as a crucial counterbalance to perceived institutional bias. According to News9live, Pa Ranjith’s words reflect an industry-wide call for change, resonating beyond the confines of cinema.