Exclusive: Suniel Shetty defends patriotism in cinema amid ‘propaganda' debates
"I honestly believe India is a beautiful country, and we all need to stand up and say that this is my country, my state, and these are my heroes, and their stories. I think in the last few years we have seen a number of historical films being made and people are relating to them. They are talking about our rich cultures, festivals, and celebrating our history. I am seeing that change in my house, so I am sure it's also happening across," Shetty said.
He also emphasised that the change is also happening in terms of storytelling. He shared how Gujarat has always been known as the place for business, food, family, dandia and festivities, but this is for the first time the story of heroes who stood up against the Mughals and fought for their people, temples and even Shivji is being told from the state.
He also discussed the flip-side of telling such stories from the past in current times that could lead to divisiveness in society, something that we saw during 'Chhaava.' When asked if films like these could attack secularism in society, inciting hate towards one community, he said, 'Not at all, at least not our film. Never once has there been anything spoken against a community. There is no hatred. The film is about India being one country, and how together we can come together to secure our culture, or belief and our world. Hinduism and the Sanatan dharma are not about a religion, about dharma and karma. It all boils down to being empathetic towards each other. That's also the beauty of our film, where they did not want outsiders to spread hatred in the country. And this is what the current situation also demands from all of us."
On a final note, we asked Suniel Shetty how a lot of films today on nationalism or wars are termed 'propaganda' or 'jingoistic'. Having also been part of films like 'Border,' the actor replied, "I feel I am doing my duty towards my country. I am an actor in uniform, be it reel or real. That's how I look at it, from a positive perspective. If someone keeps abusing my motherland, I will never let that happen. However, if it's an internal thing, our efforts would be to protect every Indian. And the one who truly loves their country is the one who speaks out when they see something wrong."
Kesari Veer will hit cinemas on May 23.
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