Film's Commercial Hurdles
Suniel Shetty's recent film, 'Kesari Veer,' which delved into the historical resilience of Gujarat's Somnath Temple against repeated destructions, unfortunately, did not resonate with audiences at the box
office, leading to its swift removal from theatres. Shetty attributed this setback primarily to issues with distribution rather than the film's content. He explained that despite significant research invested in capturing the temple's rich history accurately, the film lacked adequate theatrical release and proper marketing. The actor highlighted how a flawed distribution strategy, particularly when handled internally by the producer's team, can lead to a well-made project failing to reach its potential audience and consequently incurring financial losses, deeming it a case of a 'good film went down the drain.'
Championing Indigenous Narratives
Expressing a deep emotional connection to India's cultural past, Suniel Shetty voiced his concern over the consistent portrayal of figures like Aurangzeb, Akbar, and Babur in popular cinema. He argued that Indian historical narratives should prominently feature the country's own rich heritage, encompassing subjects like the Vedas, the valour of the Rajputs, and the leadership of Shivaji Maharaj. Shetty emphasized that every hero from every state deserves to be celebrated on screen. His strong feelings about the enduring spirit of the Somnath Temple, which has withstood numerous attacks, underscore his belief that stories of indigenous strength and cultural pride are vital and often overlooked in mainstream filmmaking. This perspective aligns with calls for a more inclusive and celebratory approach to historical storytelling in India.
Echoing Calls for Historical Accuracy
Suniel Shetty's sentiments regarding the need to highlight Indian heroes in cinema are not unique; actor Akshay Kumar previously voiced similar observations while promoting his film based on Prithviraj Chauhan. Kumar had pointed out a significant disparity in how Indian history is presented in educational materials, noting that while invaders often receive extensive coverage, figures like Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan are relegated to just a few lines. He expressed surprise at how little is commonly known about such pivotal Indian rulers and their contributions, contrasting it with the detailed accounts of foreign conquerors. This shared concern among prominent actors suggests a growing awareness and desire within the industry to rectify the historical focus and provide a more balanced and patriotic representation of India's past on screen.
