Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s recent film, “Animal,” stirred intense online discussions and became a topic in Congress MP Ranjeet Ranjan’s powerful speech in the Rajya Sabha. Despite a remarkable global box office earnings of 6.78 million dollars in its first week, the film faced controversy over its portrayal of violence and misogyny.
Ranjeet Ranjan emerged as a vocal critic during a parliamentary debate, expressing concerns about the film’s potential impact on the youth. She recounted a distressing incident involving her daughter and other children, leading her to leave the theater midway. Ranjan urged the entertainment industry to recognize its societal responsibility in shaping cultural perceptions.
Her critique extended to the film’s soundtrack, particularly “Arjan Vailly,” criticized for its use by the BJP in celebratory events. Ranjan questioned its association with a gang war context, expressing dissatisfaction over its link to the historical figure Arjan Singh Nalwa.
Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Rashmika Mandanna and Anil Kapoor, “Animal” faced mixed reviews despite commercial success. The film, exploring a tumultuous father-son relationship against a criminal backdrop, secured an ‘A’ certificate from the CBFC. Produced by T-Series, Cine1 Studios, and Bhadrakali Pictures, it clashed with Meghna Gulzar’s “Sam Bahadur.”
The ongoing controversy has ignited debates on storytellers’ responsibility and cinema’s influence on societal values, raising ethical questions about storytelling and its impact on impressionable audiences.
