Karnataka Bans Annu Kapoor`s Hamare Baarah Citing Potential Communal Tension
Updated on: 07 June, 2024 11:23 AM IST |Amruta Karulkar

Karnataka Puts Brakes on Release of Annu Kapoor Starrer "Hamare Baarah" Citing Potential Communal Tension
The release of the much-anticipated film "Hamare Baarah," starring veteran actor Annu Kapoor, has been hit by a roadblock in Karnataka. The state government has banned the movie`s release for two weeks, or until further notice, citing concerns that it might trigger communal tensions.
The decision comes after the government considered requests from several minority organisations and delegations who raised objections after viewing the film`s trailer. The Karnataka government`s move is based on sections 15(1) and 15(5) of the Karnataka Cinema Regulations Act, 1964, which empowers the authorities to regulate the exhibition of films deemed to be against public order or morality.
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The trailer, which was abruptly pulled down from online platforms after its release on May 30th, has been accused of promoting "uncouth crude and communal propaganda" by some viewers. Many expressed concerns that the film`s content could be disturbing and potentially "poison" the minds of the younger generation.
The film`s title itself underwent a change. Initially titled "Hum Do Humare Baraah" (We Two, Our Twelve), it was rechristened "Hamare Baarah" (Our Twelve) following a directive by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
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"People talk about propaganda all the time. I`m not bothered about it," Kapoor said. "I would urge people to watch the film first and then decide what our film stands for. They haven`t watched it, so I don`t understand why they`re judging it."
The makers of "Hamare Baarah" have yet to comment on the Karnataka government`s decision. Whether they will challenge the ban or make edits to appease concerns remains to be seen.
The decision comes after the government considered requests from several minority organisations and delegations who raised objections after viewing the film`s trailer. The Karnataka government`s move is based on sections 15(1) and 15(5) of the Karnataka Cinema Regulations Act, 1964, which empowers the authorities to regulate the exhibition of films deemed to be against public order or morality.
Also Read: Meet Kulwinder Kaur, The CISF Woman Constable Who Slapped Kangana Ranaut
Why is Hamare Baraah mired in controversy?
"Hamare Baarah," directed by Kamal Chandra, has been a subject of intense discussion even before its release. The film tackles the sensitive issue of overpopulation, a theme rarely explored in mainstream Indian cinema. However, the narrative has landed itself in hot water.The trailer, which was abruptly pulled down from online platforms after its release on May 30th, has been accused of promoting "uncouth crude and communal propaganda" by some viewers. Many expressed concerns that the film`s content could be disturbing and potentially "poison" the minds of the younger generation.
The film`s title itself underwent a change. Initially titled "Hum Do Humare Baraah" (We Two, Our Twelve), it was rechristened "Hamare Baarah" (Our Twelve) following a directive by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Also Read: Akshay Kumar and Arshard Warsis Jolly LLB 3 Lands in Legal Trouble in Ajmer
Annu Kapoor defends the film
Annu Kapoor, who plays a pivotal role in "Hamare Baarah," has spoken out about the controversy surrounding the film. Lamenting the quick judgements passed without viewing the movie, Kapoor urged audiences to watch it first before forming an opinion."People talk about propaganda all the time. I`m not bothered about it," Kapoor said. "I would urge people to watch the film first and then decide what our film stands for. They haven`t watched it, so I don`t understand why they`re judging it."
The makers of "Hamare Baarah" have yet to comment on the Karnataka government`s decision. Whether they will challenge the ban or make edits to appease concerns remains to be seen.
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