The turbulent history of Kashmir has recently emerged as a focal point within the Bollywood film industry, representing a significant source of revenue for filmmakers in the country.
The latest entrant into this lucrative domain is the actress Yami Gautam, poised to present a compelling narrative in the political drama titled ‘Article 370.’
According to the directors, the film aims to illuminate the “pain and struggles” experienced in the Kashmir valley. The recently released teaser offers a preview into the portrayal of the region’s “turmoil.”
Opening with picturesque snowcapped mountains and the idyllic beauty of Kashmir, the teaser swiftly transitions to scenes of burning streets, riots, and bloodshed.
The actress, married to a Kashmiri Pandit, Aditya Dhar, makes a typical Bollywood hero entry, not just combating militancy but also challenging the high authorities exploiting the state for corruption.
She asserts, “Terrorism is a business in Kashmir—nothing to do with Azadi, everything to do with money,” and continues onto BJP’s narrative blaming the local politicians and bureaucrats for the conflict in the region.
Continuing on the BJP narrative, the director then sheds light on how leaders in Kashmir have leveraged the special status, rendering themselves immune to questioning.
The teaser concludes with the announcement of the abrogation of Article 370 from the state.
Directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, ‘Article 370’ features Yami Gautam in the lead role alongside Priyamani. Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar, and Lokesh Dhar, the movie showcases Yami as an intelligence officer.
The movie is scheduled for release on February 23, 2024, the film adds to Yami’s versatile filmography, which includes ‘OMG 2,’ ‘Chor Nikal Ke Bhaga,’ ‘Badlapur,’ and ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike.’
Earlier, Bollywood portrayed Kashmir as an idyllic escape with its natural beauty and romantic allure, downplaying the harsh realities faced by the local population, however, the trend has recently changed.
Bollywood now has been depicting Kashmir as a battleground. This portrayal has not evolved, evident in the rush of Bollywood filmmakers to register titles celebrating the repeal of Article 370.
Movies like Shikara, Kashmir files, focused on the Kashmiri Pandit exodus, have faced criticism for vilifying Muslims, indicating a disturbing trend of biased narratives against Kashmiris in Bollywood, potentially worsening in the future.