A filmmaker is forging ahead with his film on Indian politics and elections, globally releasing it on February 23, after it was rejected by the Central Board of Film Certification.
The film, ‘Political War’, produced by Mukesh Modi under the banner of Indie Films Inc, will now hit theatres outside India and will be followed by an OTT release.
Despite the setback, Modi – a Mumbai-born US-based filmmaker – says he remains steadfast in his belief that every project requires a hundred percent commitment, regardless of the emotional toll it may take.
“Of course, I am hurt. But I believe in doing my good karma and leaving the rest to God. I have made tremendous sacrifices, both personal and financial, to make this film,” Modi said, adding that he aims to make films that create awareness and provide solutions.
Revealing the dark side of politics, the film stars Prashant Narayan, Seema Biswas, Rituparna Sengupta, Milind Gunaji, Shishir Sharma, and Aman Verma in pivotal roles.
While the lack of censor board approval hampers domestic distribution, he sees the film’s global release as an opportunity to reach a broader audience, albeit with plans to revisit and resubmit the film for approval in India.
“My opinion is that the board should suggest what needs to be altered in a film. However, just rejecting a film doesn’t make sense. They need to look into this,” Modi, whose first film ‘The Elevator’ was sold to Amazon, said.
Through his films, Modi says, he aims to guide audiences toward positive action, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding societal values and cohesion.
“It is easy to make films on history or what has already happened. However, my aim is to make films that give a solution. And, ‘Political War’ does that. It offers a way out for the audience.”
Cinema, according to him, serves as a potent tool for societal change, advocating for content that uplifts and unites. “I urge fellow filmmakers to harness the medium’s transformative potential by promoting positive messages and solutions to prevalent issues.”
Via his film, shot across Lucknow, Varanasi, Mumbai, and America, he aims to instill a message of unity and resilience, cautioning against divisive politics fueled by religion and caste.
“Today, unfortunately, we are surrounded by people who are taking advantage of religion and caste biases. I want people to open their eyes and see the impact of religious bias. You have to be one, you can’t let anyone divide you.”
the film’s trailer had gone viral, clocking 15 lakh views and numerous likes, comments and shares, and impressions within a short period.
