This 2-hour 10-minute thriller will leave you speechless, was banned in two countries, director's home was attacked, film is..., lead actors are…
In 1995, a film hit the theatres that did more than just entertain, which unsettled, provoked, and sparked huge debate. The filmmaker's bold approach to keep the theme raw and dark stirred controversy after its release. Religious groups protested, screenings were halted, and serious attacks were made on the director's life. However, its music became an all-time favourite while its message divided opinions for upcoming generations. Even today, it remains one of the most talked-about releases of that era for its bold choices. Let's know who this filmmaker is and what his creation was that put his life in danger. The Greatest Of All Time…
Here we are talking about popular director Mani Ratnam, who is known for creating the finest artistic masterpieces in the history of Indian Cinema. The director made his debut in 1983 with Kannada film Pallavi Anu Pallavi, which did not receive a thumbs up from audiences, but Mani Ratnam's directorial ability earned him earned Karnataka State Film Award for Best Screenplay. When His 1995 Film… Became Most Controversial Films
In the year 1995, the director chose to make Bombay, featuring Arvind Swamy and Manisha Koirala in lead roles. The film was based on the 1992-93 riots that took place in Bombay after the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, which created huge tension between Hindus and Muslims.
After its initial release, the depiction of inter-religious interactions between a Muslim woman and a Hindu man sparked significant controversy. Later, when makers decided to premiere it globally, the film was banned in Singapore and Malaysia. Mani Ratnam's residence was targeted with two homemade bombs, which injured him badly and later hospitalised him for medical care.
Despite landing in various controversies, it was presented at numerous international film festivals, including the Philadelphia Film Festival in 1996. Mani Ratnam, for his bold and fearless approach, bagged the Filmfare Award for director and many other highly acclaimed accolades. What Happens If Bombay Made/Released Today?
Renowned cinematographer Rajeev Menon, who worked with Mani Ratnam in Bombay, recently talked about 1995 flick and gave his opinion. During a conversation with O2 when Rajeev was asked about Bombay and ca it be made today, he said 'The point is the entire film like Bombay today cannot be made because situation in India is so volatile and people will take up positions which are so strong and religion has become such a big issue and I don't think you can make a film like Bombay and release in theatre and not expect the theatre to be burnt down today. In 25-30 years, India has become less tolerant.'
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