As the release date of Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ approaches, political controversy surrounding the film has intensified. The Congress party, particularly Maharashtra leader Husain Dalwai, has openly criticized the film, alleging it distorts history and tarnishes the legacy of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Set to release on January 17, Emergency portrays the tumultuous 21-month period from 1975 to 1977 when Indira Gandhi imposed a nationwide Emergency, curtailing civil liberties and democratic rights.
Husain Dalwai has not only labeled ‘Emergency’ a “propaganda film” but also taken aim at Kangana Ranaut personally.
Speaking to the IANS, the former Rajya Sabha MP hurled a series of derogatory remarks at the actor-director, describing her as having a “loose temperament” and accusing her of lacking understanding of Indian history and national icons. “She has no stature of her own and remains a pawn in the hands of the RSS. Whatever she is fed in her ears by the RSS, she speaks the same,” he alleged.
The Congress leader’s remarks did not stop there. Husain Dalwai demanded an investigation into the film’s funding, suggesting that those backing Emergency might have ulterior motives. “We won’t allow its screening if something objectionable is shown,” he warned, further urging audiences to boycott the film.
The controversy also touched on Kangana’s recent invitation to Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi to watch the film. According to Kangana, she met Priyanka Gandhi in Parliament and personally invited her to view the Emergency. Priyanka, Kangana said, graciously acknowledged the invitation.
However, Dalwai dismissed this as a publicity stunt, claiming the filmmakers were desperate to generate buzz for a film that, in his view, had failed to create excitement among the public.
Kangana has responded to these criticisms by highlighting the obstacles she faced while creating the film, which she claims were orchestrated by a “particular ecosystem” opposed to her work. She has also spoken publicly about the struggles she endured in bringing the story of ‘Emergency’ to the big screen.
The film, starring Kangana in the lead role as Indira Gandhi, also features seasoned actors like Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, and others in pivotal roles.