Ikkis, the Sriram Raghavan directorial that hit theatres on January 1, struggled to perform well at the box office. While a section of audience praised the film for its humane depiction of war, many people also criticised it for its ‘soft’ depiction of Pakistani officials and civilians. Now, Suhasini Mulay, who played a small role in Ikkis, has addressed the subject.
Interacting with media at an event at Gauhati Press Club, the veteran actor first praised Ikkis, saying, “The Pakistanis are shown as humans, not ghosts or demons.” The actor then expressed resentment towards the current state of affairs, where mainstream cinema is becoming more politically aggressive in its stance, and took a dig at The Kashmir Files.
She said, “That’s the reality today. You make films like this, you get trolled. You make The Kashmir Files, you get tax benefits. The political cinema now is ideologically right-wing, and religious dominance is the norm. There is also the huge question of 'otherisation' of indigenous people and minorities, not just Muslims, but all minorities.” Suhasini also took an objection to the ‘incredible projection of violence’ in contemporary movies.
Ikkis, which featured Agastya Nanda in the lead, also featured Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat in significant roles.
Suhasini Mulay has been part of many popular movies like Lagaan (2001), Dil Chahta Hai (2001), Jodhaa Akbar (2008), and Page 3 (2005).