![Tamil Nadu wants me out. When [M.F.] Husain can do it, Haasan will do it... I am fed up: Kamal Haasan](http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/01347/kamal_1347327g.jpg "Tamil Nadu wants me out. When [M.F.] Husain can do it, Haasan will do it... I am fed up: Kamal Haasan")
The ban on Kamal Hassan-starrer Vishwaroopam was restored on Wednesday, with the Madras High Court setting aside a single Judge’s interim order staying the ban.
Disposing of appeals filed by the Tamil Nadu government challenging the single Judge’s order, the First Bench comprising the Acting Chief Justice Elipe Dharma Rao and Justice Aruna Jagadeesan directed the government to file its reply before the single Judge in all the writ petitions connected to the issue on February 4, as submitted by the Advocate-General (AG).
Considering the heavy financial loss urged on the part of Rajkamal Films International, the producer of the film who is the petitioner, and considering the urgency involved in the matter, the Bench requested the single Judge to take up all the writ petitions connected to the subject on February 6 or any other date convenient to him and dispose them of.
In his order, the single Judge had said he was of the view that the order under Section 144 Cr.P.C. was liable to be kept in abeyance for the present. He granted an interim injunction restraining the authorities from interfering with the petitioner’s rights in releasing the film.
The AG, A. Navaneethakrishnan, submitted there were specific provisions in the Cr.P.C. for the aggrieved party under sub-sections (4) and (5) of Section 144 to approach the same authority or government by way of revision against such orders. When such a remedy was available, the writ petitioner, without availing itself of the same, had rushed to the court. This is not maintainable, he said.
Senior counsel for Rajkamal Films International, P.S. Raman, said the film had been censored by the Central Board of Film Certification and granted the necessary certificate to screen the movie. The State Government had no authority to ban the screening as pre-censorship by the State Government or its agencies was impermissible.
The Bench said though remedial measures were provided for in the Cr.P.C., the aggrieved party had not availed itself of them and had initiated the writ proceedings under Art.226 of the Constitution. It was in these circumstances that the AG had raised objection with regard to the maintainability of the writ petitions and the consequent passing of interim orders.
The single Judge had passed an interim order after having found there was a prima facie case in favour of the writ petitioners, but before any counter had been filed by the respondents. By granting the interim order, virtually the film had been allowed to be screened which would automatically make the writ petitions pending before the single Judge infructuous. Therefore, since such an interim order was in the nature of granting the main relief, the Bench said it was setting aside the interim order.
Keywords: Vishwaroopam ban, Kamal Haasan, Madras High Court, Muslim outfits protest, Tamil Nadu government
I live in London,I watched movie twice and first time I went with few of my close muslim associates.First half of the movie they enjoyed and second half they were really disappointed and expressed their concern on using Arabic holy words and quran before killing.None of them were happy with the movie. But I dint feel anything affecting religion..
Then i realised to understand them we need to understand their religion first and their sentiments.I respect their friendship So I thought this will be a sensitive issue.Then I have to do second time to enjoy the second half.
Go and speak to your muslim friends and understand thier concern...We should accept that already they started feeling as second citizens because of our ignorance on thier religion.
This is my view...
Whoever is trying to stop this film is not fit enough to tie the great man's shoe laces.
What a ridiculous world we live in?
I am not a fan of any movie star but the whole controversy on viswaroopam movie has raised many questions in me. As I haven't seen the moview, assuming concerns raised by protestor and kamal are valid, the government should have acted as an intermediatory and solved it amicably without any favouritism. Thus, it would have stood for both the minorites and freedom of art. It further raises concern on the maturity of the parties involved especially the government. I don't think it's a good precedent and it may even encourage many others to follow the same suit.
My valid questions are "who is playing the big brother role here ? why are the film certificates for ? You may have the freedom to guide me but not the right to restrict my freedom which is well within the rule of law ".
I would also like to say that everyone believes in judicial process nowadays(thanks to the supreme court),but wish all courts follow the same in explaining their verdict to the knowledge of common people.
The sad and the ridiculous part is that, those who are taking it to the streets have not seen the movie or don't even know why they are protesting. The brains who are behind this sure have some hidden agenda against Kamal! C'mon lets join the initiative #support_kamal_haasan
TN PEOPLE supports Kamal, it is just TN Govt doesn't support.
The whole thing is beyond ridiculous. Art & expression of art is a fundamental human right. Religion and politics has no place in governing this. India is supposedly SECULAR. Pandering to a particular group of people is beyond anybody's comprehension. Wish the civilized populace come together and stop this nonsense. We are in the 21st century!!!!
I do not think there is any thing that is offensive to the Muslim
community in this movie. We see these things in the documentaries all
the time. We have seen this in real life also during the Mumbai terror
attack.
This is a movie that matches the Hollywood movies in settings and
stunt, though there is a lack of story value.
Tamilnadu Government made a poor choice in banning the movie. If they
were afraid of goonda activity due to the screening of this movie, it
just shows the incompetance of our police force and also the
Government compared to other countries.
I live in USA, and i have seen this movie last week.
Today's second Ban just shows the Political Fist of the Govt. of Tamil Nadu. The real fact being the movie being the movie is being asked for a Rock bottom low rate and since he had invested a huge amount, the producer could not sell the movie for the rock bottom price. The Govt cannot tell this in public and so they quote it as a Law and Order situation and a pretext for banning the movie. This is Cheap and third rated attitude. The State judiciary is just a mouthpiece of the Govt. When Muslims themselves are not offended - The Govt of Tamil Nadu is getting offended by this movie. Shame!!. Thank God I am out of that place.
Shame on you government. You have just dumped the right of an
artist to express his creativity. Tamil Nadu is no more a
progressive state and the government time and again proves it with
these kind of stupid restrictions on art. Beyond this it is so
heart melting to see a great artist who reinvests all his earnings
to cinema is ill-treated and humiliated like this.
I hope this issue will be sorted out very soon, In all section of media
there are number of stories are circulating that this is the original
reason and that is the original reason, I don't want to go on to that
issues here, Number of important things are there for the Govt, they are
not elected for settling scores with their opponents and enemies. I Wish
Kamal and sincerely pray for him to overcome all these hurdles with
God's grace. Hope good sense prevail everywhere and in everything.
I wonder what are the views of Prince of Arcot, the champion of Secularism and Harmony, about the protests of his fellow religionists which led to the ban.
This agitation came because of the repeated suppression by the Cinema and Media.
Islam is a civilized Relegion and has been here in this world for centuries which spreads equality and justice. Islam is never a relegion which promotes terrorism.
But unfotunately, the Cinema and other media reflects Muslim as a terrorist, always showing the negative image. My dear Indian brothers and sister, Islam wants peace to prevail everywhere. It is a relegion which wants to make a individual human being to develop with good characters and help others . Al-Quran says No muslim is a muslim, if he kills fellow human being.
As an Indegenious Indian, I understand Islam by reasoning , logic and Science
A single person who is in power can change the things according to
his/her wishes, simply acting as dictator. Judicial system got broke
down. If a single judge cannot judge correctly/accurately then what is
the meaning of keeping such a one in the system? Is it not questioning
his credibility? It is eye-opener in many ways - thorough overhauling
of Judicial System is required. Central Censor Board's role has to be
validated. A small group of people can control the entire state, law
and order for that matter Govt. Machinery to be enabled to control law
& order of the state efficiently. Come on ...people, lets stand united
and resist these sort of dictorship.
There is skeptics why the minority segments do not support Mr. Kamal. The question is valid if it is right. We advise those who are in that mind please read the Madhyamam daily (30th Jan. 2013)& check the most vibrant youth association "SOLIDARIY's" stand on this issue.
There are emotionalist, we are not denying it. Our firm position is for dialog not for ban.
I fully endorse the views expressed by Mr.Vijay Jayaraman.
Take it from anybody, Muslims will never adore you even if you
take thousands of films pleasing them. They are worreid only about their Holy Koran, Islam, Fatwa, Jihad - thats all. Nationality, scienc, technology will never matter to them.
You are an idiot and you will never learn from your mistakes. Even dont believe these Sharah Rukh Khan, Aamin Khan, ....Khan. Khan
To have their own clearn image, they will support you directly, indirectly they will do anything. Please have some sense. Thats all.
I feel that the Govt has taken this decision as they might have
information from Police taht There could be a political Conspiracy by
opposition to create law and order problem by sending Goondas
pretending to be Muslims and attack theaters which screen this Movie
and maybe the Police sensed that such things might happen and might
have recommended to CM to stop screening this movie. I hope people
understand the real situation and do not simply blame the State govt
for preventing the movie from getting released. Also, Kamal did a bad
judgement by selecting this subject matter for his film as it go
easily play into Politicians hands.
The case was decided on procedural irregularity, not on merits..
Let's see where this goes.
Iam impressed by the reply given by N RAM in media yesterday,that it is the responsibility of the state to maintain law and order ,as he quoted the 1989 judgement.This issue has become an eye opener on many perceptions;In the way ,that freedom of expression ensured in the constitution is under jeopardy and also i would not hesitate to mention that people as media personalities are the assets of the common indian ,their views must certainly to be bounded by certain rational emotions; as our constitution rightly said "Reasonable restrictions".
An important point here is the invoking of section 144 CrPc by the state , as used by the (single judge) it was strange, to see when the government was not serious in the vanadlising issue of Dalit colonies in the Dharmapuri district where inspite of intelligence information the law and order machinary kept silence and the need for invoking section 144 CrPc was considered irrelevant.This issue also unravels the double standard in invoking
Vishwaroopam is no means an offensive movie to muslims, but a few scenes have to be removed. We all love Kamal and we stand by him.
I think its a good thing that the movie got banned. The problem is maximist cannot understand or attribute to the feelings of minority groups. Secondly Kamal Hassan is doing the same job of Ramadoss, the PMK guy
I am very very happy that I became a US citizen. I have watched Viswaroopam in US and it is fantastic ! India has become a goonda raj, an anarchy and I am happy I am no longer a citizen here
Kamal's overacting before the media should be avoided. He is what he is because of Tamilnadu and he should pay back to Tamils by taking this fight for a just conclusion through proper channels of Constitutional institutions and not by arousing his fans through gimmicks
I am not a fan of Mr.Kamal Haasan, but support him for his film. The ban on his film “Viswaroopam” is a political game. If at all there is some thing exposed about muslims, what is wrong in it? When MF Hssain can do all the nonsense about Hindu Gods & the very same Muslim community & politicians kept quite watching the fun, why can’t Kamal Haasan do it? In every film, always there is some thing about police, politicians & different communities. So, if it is to be taken as serious as in this case, then there won’t be any film passed & screened in this world. Muslims in our country wants the things & laws only when they are suitable for them from Hindu dominated country. Will they accept if the muslim laws are strictly implemented in this country too, like in any Persian Gulf contries? Politicians & courts, please stop all these nonsense things against the well perfuming artists like Mr.Kamal Haasan & let the things run as usual.
Kamal Haasan is paying for the his frankness and neutrality and his
belief in the self-respect movement. However Kamal cannot leave TN or
India. He has to now move to establish his support and power-base for a
rejuvenation of his belief and conviction. All this adds up to Jaya, who
is intent on not releasing the movie in TN and or elsewhere. What a
shame?
1. We are kept in dark about the detailed objections raised on the film by this media. Without knowing the objections, how can we comment on the objections.
2. Kamal Hasan's argument that the film is based on Afghanistan does not mean that it can not offend Indians. For example, a film that insult Hindu's in US, may be offending the Hindus of India as well.
3. Economic loss is a weak argument for seeking permission to do an unlawful thing. For example, a contract killer/illegal drug trafficker will incur heavy economic losses, if he does not do unlawful things. But law can not permit him to do illegal things.
Darkest day in TN.ashamed to be called a tamilian.as a citizen I feel throttled.think we do
need RSS/VHP etal after all .what is wrong with that?where r all the periyarvadis ?they were
wrong after all.i also feel for the Muslim common man.he is going to be worst affected in this
fiasco.secularism has been murdered in the land of periyar.Poor TN is not going to be the
same again.
Dear Hindu Paper
Its sad a film actor is going through a lot of trouble getting his film
released but is it a matter of national importance that you post the
news in your front page? Dont you usually put such news in your cinema
section or say metro plus?
India has such a long way to go in terms of freedom and free speech.
Slowly and slowly our cherished freedoms are vanishing. This Vishvaroopam controversy falls in that bag. Firstly some Tamil language lover complained about the use of Sanskrit and now Muslims are up in arms. People should realise that over the years many have criticised religion and God but both keep on going on. I believe that everyone should take a chill pill and get on with their lives. Anyone opposed to the film on whichever ground is free to not see it. Madras or any HC or SC has no business to ban this film or any other film or book unless it asks to commit murders and incite people to create mayhem.
If a judge gives his judgement and it is overturned in matter of hours then for sure the system is flawed seriously. Either the judge was incompetent enough or the higher authority is incompetent or working under fear of the political class. There is more than what is being shown. When all over the world it is being screened and no muslim is protesting , when muslims are fine with it after Kamal talked with them and agreed (however absurd) to their arguments, then why cant it be released. May be it is time for our constitution to be revised and freedom of expression and other such fundamental rights be removed so that would be more in line with what is happening the country over.
There is nothing called as Community and there is something called as Humanity. Respect the Unity in Diversity. The trouble makers should realize it.
Hey! i am curious as to what is the exact meaning that is conveyed by
that headline - "Bench restores ban on Vishwaroopam" !?
The word "restoring" some thing, any thing for that matter, has a well
accepted meaning among the people who use English Language for
interpersonal communication; may be the meaning of the word gets
miraculously transformed when used by some great journalists !?
One Man's Meat ia another Man's Poison as the adage goes. If One judge found the ban is incorrect another judge feels quite the opposite at this rate citizen in INDIA are definitely not going to get fair justice. Take the case of one leader getting more than 450 adjournments and the case still under hearings, a guinness record, this one is proof enough that Judiciary in INDIA is a dead goose. No wonder that KAMALS Movie too met the same fate at the hands of the most incompetent judiciary.
Imagine the next movie the feelings of Hindus are infringed and this goes on for jainism,buddhism,sikhism etc., the entertainment part of life is killed by these sort of bans on movies.Entertainment is only entertainment and it should be treated thus and not to interpret too many things to your own whims and fancies. How can all the collectors decide that the screening would create law and order situation.This is a farce. They have been instructed by the powers that be.
Kamal is a very good cine artist and does well,and I pray for his coming out of this CHAKRAVYUH successfully no matter who is behind this ban.
I am Rajasekar from Coimbatore. I would like to convey my support to
MR. Kamal Sir and a message to TN government
First of all you ( TN govt) should not ban the movie and you don’t
have any rights to touch the film post certificate from central film.
We people vote Jayalalitha because she is a well educated and a common
sense women and she can understand well than any other politicians. We
thought that she is different from her past and will understand
tamilnadu people feelings. But the current situation makes sense that
she doesn’t want our people to be happy and silence. Just watching
movie will not make any harm to the society and the current society is
well educated and we will take this as a film but not as a personal.
We are not living 50 years before. It is 2013 and people know what
should take how. TN no need to worry about our safety as all enough
terrorism had happened in the past (1999 Coimbatore blast) when
Jayalilitha was there as a CM of tamilnadu.
This is not about Law and order or offending a faith. It is just cheap politics by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister. It is a shame such we have such idiotic politicians.
It is really sad that there does not seem to be any liberty for artists in Tamilnadu. What Kamal has shown in his film is only the effects of terrorism. How can it offend Muslims in India?
Its clearly no longer about Muslims at all - in fact, it probably was never about Muslims. Its sad that in the 21st century, a state of smart engineers and doctors is ruled by thugs who use cheap tricks which belong to the 19th century.
The Muslim Brothers have already been insticated in TN by persons who do not like Kamal. When state govt. cannot think prudently only people court take steps to set things right!
There is no other go than to settle the issue 'amicably' with Amma and take her majesty's blessings as openly suggested by the court.
no wonder we have 2 crore cases in court. the law and the courts are one big confused mess.
The Film is not about Muslims, it is about the Afghan Terrorists. If these political leader oppose a movie about some foreign nation extremists, I believe they will also oppose if somebody makes a movie on 26/11 Mumbai attack by extremists from Pakistan.
In Anbe Sivam, the Villain is a devoted Hindu. I don't think any Hindu was offended by that? In "Roja" the antagonist is a Muslim terrorist in Kashmir. In "Bombay" the riots happened because of two selfish religious leaders (Hindu and Muslim). Both the films received national awards. The point Kamal making in his movies is "How some bad guys are wearing the religion as a make-up to showcase themselves as good, but deep down they are evil". As a matter of fact, both the protagonist and the antagonists are Muslims in this movie. How can it be offensive? When the movie is filmed in Tamil, it would look illogical for an Afghan terrorist to speak in Tamil. So, one dialogue explains he spent few years in Tamil Nadu. All the Muslims who are educated and rational will not see a single clip in the movie that is offensive.
Kamal must sue the censor board and the central govt - make 250 crores and leave the country. Incidentally, Kamal's karma seems to be coming back to bite him - he is has repeatedly denigrated the brahmin community on many occasions ! in the name of being secular and atheist ....
You can never win when you fight any Government. The Gov can destroy you. So Kamal should leave Tamil Nadu with all his people and set up shop perhaps in Karnataka. That will certainly create job problem for many and some loss of revenue for the government . There is nothing else he can do or should do.
Wow, I have never seen Judges this effective. Hope they show the same kind of alertness when it comes to pressing state issues and terrorism. Looks like Judges strings are pulled by Amma.
How did all the district collectors' statements about the law and order sitn was similar? why arent the media highlighting this?
The single Judge lifts the stay on ban.The Bench restores the ban and directs the single judge to hear the eptitions and decide.The
Bench now waits for the single judge to decide so that it can overrule him if he lifts the ban.The matter will thus continue to be tossed like a ball and the match will be like the longest Wimbledon Match played for days on end.Only here the issue will end if it goes to a singleed with the making of the film will be DEAD DUCKS judge of the SC whose decision will be overruled by a Bench of the SC and the whole match will be played afresh till one fine morning we will find the ball has landed in the Metropolitan Magistrate's Table.In the Meantime the Producer,the distributors,
and everyone connected with the Movie will all be DEAD DUCKS.And everyone in the courts will heave of sigh of relief.I know this comment will not be published.But what the hell.The courts may slap contempt proceedings but the people may develop contempt of Courts.
I was a great fan of the CM in my younger days and great credit to her for taking the views and concerns of the minority groups who raised objection to the screening into account in reaching her decision to accede.
But when the single judge gave his verdict the matter shoud have ended there and being an actress herself she would have understood more than anyone else the importance of freedom of expression without inciting violence and in this case Kamal ( great admirer of his work)
has simply presented facts as they are without offending any one. It is sad to see that people of Tamilnadu may be denied the right to appreciate an excellent piece of work. Hope common sense prevails and Kamal does not leave the shores of Tamilnadu and CM becomes a PM but my worry is that this episode may have somewhat diminished that prospect.
Sad indeed
I have seen this movie and it is decent. The only community it hurts is
the brahmin community. He has time and again shown his antibrahmin
sentiments. He has right to his opinion nothing wrong. But it is
hypocritical when he says he offends no one.
It is disappointing and I am personally surprised that a new paper like The Hindu is not adequately raising voice for what now seems a political atrocity in its own backyard, when national TV channels like NDTV has taken up the case very strongly. Why there is no editorial comments on this issue yet? who are you afraid of?
Firstly i dont understand how a judgement given by one judge can simply overturned
in a matter of hours. What judicial system we have in place, this is a very serious
concern people associated to the judicial system should look at. If the only point is
that supreme courts decision is the 'final verdict' then what is the point of having all
these middle courts and judges.
This is the question even the judges of high courts should raise.
I learned fundamental rights like life, liberty, freedom of speech,
pursuit of happiness are some thing which are unconditional, means that
they don't have to fulfill other requirements or state obligations like
national security, unity, religion or any other thing...
But how can courts and governments just negate these fundamental rights,
of which they were created to protect.
It is an old saying, " Follow the money!". Who funded? Who gained? Who lost?
It is an economically prudent decision to delete the controvercial scenes from the film and release it at a new date. We dont want Kamal Haassan to go bankrupt and live in exile.
It is about time some of the major figures in the arts, particularly in film industry, Muslim and non-Muslim, stood up and took some position in public one way or another. The issue of censorship must not be left in the hands of politicians and over-night 'leaders.'
The use of 'stay orders' is shamefully rampant in India, destroying due process of law.
It is a sad to note that state is vehemently taking the star head on , for political and private
reasons. We need mature leaders and not mean minded head of states.
Having seen the movie, I don't see anything objectionable in the movie. For God's sake it is a fiction! Why would people (judiciary included) create so much fuss about a movie. How many of these minority organizations raise their voice against real life terrorism / violence perpetrated throughout the world? Spineless display of political and opportunistic manipulation of a worthy creativity is what is happening in Tamilnadu right now. May be Kamal should have sold his movie to the Jaya TV and everything would have been ok.
Also, I never understood what a ban for 2 weeks would have helped if nothing changed when the film was released 2 weeks later.
To add to Vijay's point, the slur did not end with the mere epithet, the said person was further tauntingly asked to taste meat. But that is after all fair game for not all minorities are equal.
I have watched the film.
Kamal - in the movie - has shown the Taliban in a bad light and a practicing Indian Muslim has been depicted as being rationale,
patriotic, smart and a loving human being. From an Indian Muslim
perspective how could this be interpreted as being not fair to them?
Why do they equate the Taliban with themselves? I urge the youngsters
in the community to seriously consider the question and show their
support to this point of view.
My suggestion to Kamal:
* ask for donations from his fans
* release the DVD
* show it online for a fee
Kamal, I am sure will get through this. But, what about many others
that do not have a profile/reach as big as him and are faced with a
similar situation?
I commend The Hindu for coming out with a strong Editorial (Jan 29,
2012) - supporting Kamal's case and for supporting freedom of
expression in general.
I wonder when we will mature to become a responsible society. Why we
should 'bully' a person who has a different way of looking at things?
Why can't we patiently listen to something different from our seasoned
mindsets? How long we play the narrow minded definition of 'religious
sentiments'? Isn't it foolish to resort to flexing muscles at the drop
of a hat? Aren't these silly splinter groups bullying and gagging a
vast majority of the citizens who would like to have a freedom of
thought and expression? What do such narrow minded religions do for
the humanity? How many of the so called 'offended groups' have seen
the movie? Einstein was precisely correct when he commented that the
only example of infinity in the universe is human stupidity!
Would one of our Muslim citizens please stand up and express himself on
this? We badly need to hear you!
If u cant stop ministers from looting our country, cant stop rapist. there are lakhs of cases pending in courts , what exactly govt. wants to show ? When needed ministers use religions for vote one way or the other. i support kamal.
i wonder why the TN gov. is not showing an inch of softness towards the
release of the film keeping in mind the film crew and the budget they
poured into the making of the film and the confession of the actor that
is not against any minority community,even as the TN gov.CM herself
came from the cinema background.
A clear case of a very small percentage of religious zealots preventing the majority of the population in seeing a well made movie.
well pointed out - Vijay Jayaraman.
I don't want kamal to suffer. Hope it gets better for him. But hope he
realizes this mistake & everyone who does this. Just because one
community doesn't come out in the open, that doesn't mean that you
should continue bashing them. Moreover its not expected of kamal's
stature. we expect better things from the best actor of India.
Attempts by fringe elements to thwart freedom of speech/expression and
preemptive intolerance on media are in increasing trend. TN Govt's
unusual assertion of law and order issues in screening Vishwaroopam is
hard to believe. One has every reason to believe TN Police, which is
directly controlled by Chief Minister Jayalalithaa has every might to
deal with any potential situations. If not, is it not a tacit agreement
of inability of police to maintain law and order situations. I think, TN
govt sets a bad precedence aligning with fringe elements for petty
political benefits. Sad, Kamal is subjected to such harassment in his
own state while people of neighboring Kerala and AP, and Muslim
dominated Malaysia show greater maturity.
Are we really a secular state? This is one more incident to prove the power of politics in our state. I watched the movie and Iam really proud that one among us has really taken this regional cinema to a new stride. There is absolutely nothing denigrating the sentiments of the minorities. Where else can this injustice happen to the son of the soil other than Tamilnadu? Tamilnadu will always have the privilege of forcefully exiling this incredible artiste out of the state. Please don't kill the art and the artises for personal vengeance.
Really unbelievable, there is no democracy in this country even to produce
an movie which was stated the story is fictitious and not resemble to
anyone. if everybody has to knock the door of court, there is no end to
this.
Absolutely India is not an secular country, only Hindus are telling it is
secular, Muslims are not ready to accept it.
This is unbelievable. Has Tamil Nadu disentegrated to such low levels because of
Jayalalitha's hatred. Common sense seems to have been thrown out and even DMK
has not come out in support of this actor. Why are even the judges behaving in such
a irrational manner? Politics and power is poison and it is amplified in Tamil Nadu. I
still hope that sense will prevail in TamilNadu...
This is getting complicated now and the best way forward for the highly talented Tamil Film industry is to sever all ties with political world (difficult to do so), else anyone can land up in this kind of mess.... First it was the previous government handling all releases through a network of 3 firms. Now the current govt is taking a different route to maintain the grip.
We saw the film in Bangalore today. It is very well produced and directed movie. It is a shame how some fanatics can create the spy thriller. I am not sure if AIADMK is behind the ban as the High court cannot act to her whims. What is the Centre doing. Let us see what the Supreme court decides for tamil nadu screening.
The film payed a lot of attention on Islamic practices which could have
been deleted or ignored shooting them as it hurts Islamic values.
Honestly this movie should have come a decade ago not at this time where
a country like us dwell with corruption menace perhaps Kamal should have
been little smart enough to come up with sequel Bharatiyudu-2 or
Hindustani-2....
It is a shameful act by the state govt to pursue such a mission to
destabilize the creativity of an artiste by opting to such dubious
things. It is not the intolerance of the people towards the movie, but
Amma's intolerance towards free speech. Win or loose, Kamal has
successfully pointed out about India failing to be secular state.
While I support Kamal in his struggle, I have few questions to him
1. Have you ever consulted Hindu religious leaders, forget leaders, your Hindu brothers
whenever you made statements against Hindu gods and practices. Here I am not justifying
all the Hindu practices or the evil caste system is right
2. Have you ever raised your voice in support of Salman Rushdie
3. Have you ever supported Taslima Nasreen
Why, because of your conviction that Hindu world is bovine and you can take everyone for
granted whereas other religions don't have tolerance and you have pay the price heavily,
isn't that the reason? Isn't it double standards by your own standards.
How come we get instantaneous justice regarding the issue where the state government is involved while other cases get prolonged for years??
Artists are made the scapegoats while non secular people get away??
Behave yourself India ..Youth are seriously watching you
Is there is a working constitution in this country and if so who is authority for it? People, Politicians or individuals with personal motives?.
If the decision is reversed by Supreme court who will pay for the loss?
When this state will really be governed?
Wish court can make decisions on rape cases as soon as this!
"<i><b>He had agreed to remove scenes regarding the Holy Quran in deference to
their sentiments.</b></i>" If this is TRUE, then TN Govt is right in imposing interim
ban of two weeks & questioning its certificate and matter has to be judged by court
not by public sentiment or by media.
This is another example of how politics influencing the law policies and
procedures. People should think wisely and should be in a position to
apply their though and judge on which is good for society
What is happening for the past one month about this film looks like a story,dialogue and scenes for shooting another film without any communal problem but mainly hovering around politics. we wish some hero steps in and solve these problems of the actor and finish with a happy ending like all other Tamil films.
I saw Vishwaroopam in USA along with my family. I dont see anything that is derogatory agains islam or muslims. On the contrary there are a few violent scenes that could have been mellowed down.
The movie on the whole is great. Technically excellent. Kamal has done a remarkable job as an actor, song writer & director.
Let us forget about what Tamilnadu politicians do with this movie. We should not let a great artist like Kamal to suffer damages. I am ready to contribute to a "fund" set-up to compensate him. May be The Hindu can take this up.
I am happy that courts have taken such a quick action for a film . Had the courts taken such a speedy action in NAMBI NARAYAN'S case India would not have not only lost a good Scientist but also a great development in Space technology.Justice delayed is nothing but justice denied
Tamil Nadu Government's actions are clearly vindictive and state machinery should be put to use that will work for the betterment of the People and not pursue business and vindictive agenda of people in power. Right to freedom of expression and speech is a fundamental right bestowed upon all Indian Citizens and sadly the state government is in no mood to uphold even a miniscule portion of it for Mr Hassan. What is the need to appeal at 2 AM for the Advocate General? Egocentricity?
To Mr. Vijay Jayaraman, although he called them Pappathis, he still casted them in his movies. In fact, he was mocking the way they squash Tamil. So please dont start yet another controversy. He's had enough by now. Everyone's ready to take their personal vengeance on a creative director/actor. Only god knows where are we heading!
the only way this can be resolved is by gandhian way and everyone in tamil nadu must abstain from watching any movies until this issue is reolved and this will bring the cine industry to a halt and pressurise the state government which will start losing revenues and hit below th ebelt. the cine fraternity should note that this can happen to any one of them.
The common man smells a rat here.
Its far too obvious that the judgement is anything but fair and plays into vested interests of a
vengeful government. But what can the common man do ecxept sit and watch helplessly?
There seems to be no hope for the common man, who is disgusted by the machinations of
this corrupt govt.
Hailing from Chennai and living in Canada for the last 46 years, I am watching this
stupid soap opera being played by the State government of Tamil Nadu and the
Judiciary of this state regarding this movie " Vishwaroopam ". This film has been
okayed by the Central Board of Censors in New Delhi and the Minister in charge of
this institution has come out openly and said that the Tamil Nadu government is
not right in banning it. I would appeal to the Chief Minister Jayalalitha to reconsider
her government's viewpoint in this matter and release the film.
We should respect the Judicial system of India whatever the judgment it
may be.
Is this the fate of a veteran actor, Kamal Hassan? A man who has been in the movie industry for 5 decades.
All the industry should have done is to make him at-least release the movie in the DTH, he could have made some money for paying the loaners.
He is into some political mess, which I guess only Amma can untangle.
I request Dr. Jayalalitha to support the cinema industry and make this movie a success. A man who speaks proper Tamil and a man who brings in new technologies to the field of cinema shouldn't be treated in this way.
There are a thousand of movies which is released across the world which is against terrorism, and I don't think anyone is opposing it.
I watched the movie, and Dr. Kamal Hassan plays a role of a Good Muslim in the movie, there are lot of messages in the movie which shows Indian Muslims in the good light. But still I don't understand what is wrong in this.
I guess the censor board is a mere comedy role in the country.
Indian judicial system is losing its credibility mainly due to its
lack of wisdom in giving such orders and secondly due to its
inordinate delay in getting things done. Film is running in packed
houses in Kerala without any issues where count of muslims who can
perfectly understand Tamil are more than that in Tamil Nadu. Else
where film got released without any issues. Today it is just a film
on ban, tomorrow such political and judicial decisions can cause
havoc with the entire credentials of republic of India. Let us hope
things will turn up better.
In the first place,the film viswaroopam must not have been treated so mercilessly in the actor's own state. kamal haasan has been a great contributor to the Indian Cinema over the last 3 to 4 decades. Infact he is the only actor in the country who makes movies which are very close to real life. His efforts must be appreciated.
This is some personal vendetta being played out in public. Why else is the Jayalalita Govt. after Kamal Hassan tooth and nail? She perhaps holds a grudge against him, whatever be the reason, as she is known to get back at her detractors at an opportune time, and perhaps Kamal is at his most vulnerable now. The vengeance with which the Govt. is going about this ban, using some fringe muslim bodies as a smoke screen, is a grand ridicule of the fundamental rights. I earnestly urge His Excellency the President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee to dismiss the Jayalalitha Govt. and impose Article 356.
Is this a free country anymore, or has it become fascist?
Of late Judiciary is more interested in creating sensation rather
delivering true justice. Money laundering & Political motivation for
some consideration has become well known attitude for giving Judgment
by learned judges And corruption in judiciary has been talked in
public For which many evidences are.Now Madras High Court Judges are
playing with Politicians is strongly evident. Kamal Hasan is a gift to
TamilNadu Unlike Rajnikant he is a bornTamilian, color , features and
Personality is still superb which is first & foremost requirement for
a Actor at first look. He has command over all the aspects of film
making. Which none of our Indian artiste right from Bollywood has got.
Simply acting as per direction is not a big achievement . In his form
TN is blessed Even in Northern part of India he is only known Tamil
actor known & praised Other actors are are even known to lions share
of population whom Tamilnadu people celebrate as Superstar unknown to
many. Govt should interfere to reso
Seems something else is going on behind the screen,may be dirty
politics.i had watched the film twice and have not found anything wrong
in it.hero in this film is a muslim and a good cop.is it wrong?This is
the time for muslim brothers to respond.
Everybody talks about ego of CM J. Jayalalitha,but why Kamala Hassan who
at the drop of a Hat meets Mr.Karuna,cannot meet her personally and
explain the whole thing. Afterall she is a Chief Minister and you are a
pure buisnessman trying to multiply your business.But nobody seems to be
noticing your ego.
Pouring milk on posters? This does not reflect well on our tradition,
religion or culture. Stop this wastage!
I tend to agree with Prashant. This looks like harassment using
judiciary. The Supreme Court directive is clear in the case of films,
after it has gone to censor. However, probably Mr. Hasan has refused to
share the fruit of his hard work with those in power and is being
harassed by them. THe powers behind, are well aware that their stand
will not hold. However, they tend to use judiciary as a means of
harassement, no wonder we people are idiots!
And the Saga continues.
Finally, the censor board has been made a defunct organization.
can someone look at the statistics (percentage of films that were
cleared by censor board and yet ran into issues) to make an informed
decision?
To address concerns on religious sentiments, why can't the system be
fixed to include a voting mechanism and decide as a part of
certification. It would significantly reduce financial loss to the
producer and to the government (mobilize all the district collectors
to address this & also a huge police force to ensure there is no law
& order issue).
I think SC will definitely lift the ban on the movie. SC ruled to lift the ban on the movie Aarkshan in a similar case.
I thought that India was a secular democracy that allows freedom of expression and equal rights for everyone. It appears that I am wrong.
It is a waste controversy by the government.According to the
government"a wrong perception against Muslims is flown over people by
this movie".But my question is-Was this government sleeping when
"Dirty Picture","Murder","Jism" etc. like movies released?
Does that time a wrong perception not go among people,children and
youths?
Then Why are every one protesting against this movie?If you really
want to filter perception given by the bollywood movies then you
filter out all movies full of vulgarity,sex etc.,not special one.
The Hindu is again voice of the brahmins. It can only publish one sided view. We knew The Hindu will not publish muslim views. But there are so many sites available to raise our concern. what SR Sankaran giving full liberty to creative artist. The Muslim have fought against British and obtained freedom for this country. It is not only Hindus fought for freedom of this country. In fact it is muslim rulers united this land where the educated Brahmins only worked to help British Rulers.
Kerala has more Muslims than elsewhere in the world and the
film is running without any noise. This indeed tells that the problem
is not with Muslims and Kamal. We all know the problem well. he made a
mistake in going to court. He now can abandon the film in Tamil Nadu;
the greater loss will be for the state. Indeed I feel great injustice
has been done to him and if any Muslim willingly had any part in that,
he'll get the punishment in the other world.
The goings on are not auguring well for cinema industry.It seems that the outfits are only the masks and the real puppeteer is somebody else.The pattern of attacks on theatres that prepared to show the film before the hearing in court smells fishy..Poor Kamal Haasan,being harassed for what?A million dollar question..The answer has to come out of the bag eventually.Really bad going..
Jaya Govt made a cardinal mistake to ban Kamal movie. The entire might
of the state machinery is used to take on one individual and to rob of
his fortunes. Jaya should have shown statesmanship rather than to settle
score with Kamal on an issue which does not espouse the cause of the
state. Besides this state govt action came in handy for neighboring
states like Karnataka, kerala to deny even minimum water in the future
citing the same law and order problem.
Its right move by the Government of TN. Artist cannot be given full freedom.Its the duty of the State to prevent any illfeelings to the Muslim community. Its time that in the name of cinema one cannot take any subject and say they have the right as an artist.
I am going to watch this movie at least 6 time, even it happens to be contrary to my
taste. This will be a protest; that way we can help Kamalhasan recover the losses. This
is the way to defeat enemies of Freedom of Expression.
La Affaire Viswaroopam has degenerated into a farce. It is clear that Kamal Haasan has offended Amma in some way. There is no other explanation. All talk about "freedom of expression" vis-a-vis "maintaining public order" is just a red herring.
When all over the world, the film has been seen & acclaimed for its creativity, entertainment value, music apart from the sterling performances by the lead actors, it will be unfortunate if the film is banned in the actor's home State. Of course in this one cannot blame the State Govt for its action to temporarily stop the release of the film as it has the onus to honour the sentiments of the minority community. Now that the ace actor has agreed to trim his film by deleting the controversial scenes, it is hoped that the HC will vacate the stay. The actor's statement that he has nothing against his Muslim brothers/sisters must be respected & accepted by all concerned. State must also be prudent enough not to pursue the court matter lest it will lose heavy revenue if the film fraternity takes any drastic steps in the future aided & supported by some of the political parties who will jump into the arena. CM Tamil Nadu must ensure full liberty to creative artists like Kamal Haasan.
Kamal, you have said a thousand times "muslim brothers" but not a single
muslim brother has come in open to support you. However calling a Brahmin
woman as papathi is fair according to you and not a single woman
organization has protested this...!
If a competent judge's decision can be overturned in matter of few hours
then there is something seriously wrong with the legal system in this
country ..
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