The Sabarmati Report, a film focusing on the 2002 Godhra incident and Gujarat riots, is set to premiere on November 15. Already, it’s drawn controversy since the release of its trailer, with lead actor Vikrant Massey reportedly receiving threats, including disturbing comments about his nine-month-old child.
In an interview with Prominent Hindi Daily Newspaper Dainik Bhaskar, Massey spoke candidly about the challenges he’s faced. “Many have exploited the tragedy of Godhra for their gain, while the real victims remain just numbers,” he noted. Although Massey was aware that the sensitive subject could spark varied reactions, producer Ekta Kapoor had complete confidence in the meticulously researched script. “Ekta provided me with extensive research, which assured me there was no basis for controversy. Initially, I was concerned the film might target specific communities or individuals, but reading the script made it clear the story is focused purely on the truth.”
Threats Extend to Actor’s Family
Massey disclosed that he has been receiving WhatsApp threats due to his role in the film. He expressed his dismay, particularly at the comments directed toward his young son. “My son is only nine months old and hasn’t even learned to walk. It’s shocking that people would involve him in their threats. Are we really living in a time when art is being silenced?” Massey said. He went on to question why India hesitates to make films on its own historical events, when films on topics like the Holocaust have been widely acknowledged and awarded internationally.
Actress Rashi Khanna on Braving Backlash
Rashi Khanna, who stars alongside Massey, revealed that she initially hesitated to take on the role. “There’s always a risk for actors in these projects,” she said. “But the question is, if not now, then when? Someone needs to tell these stories.” She noted that the film explores lesser-known truths about the Godhra incident, showing how the tragedy began and unfolded. “While anyone can make a film, actors are the ones who become its face, and often bear the brunt of backlash,” Khanna explained.
Ridhi Dogra Reflects on Journalism Today
The Sabarmati Report delves into how journalists reported on the Godhra incident at the time. Actress Ridhi Dogra, who portrays a reporter in the film, shared her thoughts on the current state of media. “Today, news seems almost casual, and it’s difficult to know where to place trust,” she said. “Media channels prioritize ratings over actual news, and that’s a concern I wanted to raise through this film.”
Massey Discusses Language Bias in the Media
The film’s trailer touches on language prejudice, particularly how Hindi-speaking journalists are sometimes looked down upon by their English-speaking counterparts. Massey commented on this issue, recalling how actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui once shared his experience of being judged for not speaking English. “Language is just a tool. I respect English as a global language, but there’s an issue when people feel embarrassed to speak in their own language,” Massey said.
Khanna on the Contrast of Language Pride in South vs. North India
Khanna also spoke about language pride, contrasting her experiences working in Southern and Northern India. “In Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada industries, people feel immense pride in their language. Not knowing English is seen as no disadvantage,” she observed. “But in North India, those who don’t speak English are often looked down upon. We need to embrace our languages with the same pride as people in the South.”
Background on the Gujarat Riots Investigation
In 2002, Narendra Modi, then Gujarat’s Chief Minister, formed the Nanavati-Shah Commission to investigate the Godhra incident. The commission’s initial report in 2008 labeled the incident as a conspiracy and cleared Modi and other senior officials of any wrongdoing. In 2009, Justice KG Shah passed away, and Justice Akshay Mehta replaced him, renaming the commission as the Nanavati-Mehta Commission. The final report, released in 2019, upheld the initial findings.
More than just a film, The Sabarmati Report ignites a dialogue on media ethics, justice, and freedom of expression, and will premiere on November 15.