The official teaser of Ajay Devgn-starrer Chauhaan, which was unveiled a few days ago, has been receiving a lot of criticism for its alleged insensitive depiction of a sensitive subject like Kashmir conflict. Among many issues, the usage of ‘pellet guns doing minimal damage’ drew backlash as well. Now, Swara Bhasker has expressed his views on the subject.
Sharing a snippet from an Al Jazeera report, that highlights the brutal impact of pallet guns, Swara Bhasker shared a note that read, “Is this what you want to glorify Bollywood?!? Pellet guns are not 'limited damage' they are a gross human rights violation. And mainstream Kashmiris are not Pathaans. Kuch toh research kar liya karo yaar (Do some research). And look up Goebbels while you are at it!” She additionally captioned the post, “The Vivek Agnihotri-fication of Bollywood.”
Among other issues, the Chauhaan teaser was also criticised for its inaccurate implication of Kashmir being largely populated by Pathaans.
Incidentally, Swara Bhasker has collaborated with Aanand L Rai and Himanshu Sharma, the co-producers of Chauhaan, on many films like Tanu Weds Manu (2011), Tanu Weds Manu Returns (2015) and Raanjhanaa (2013) among others. Aanand and Himanshu are co-producing the film with Jyoti Deshpande, under the banners of Jio Studios and Colour Yellow Productions.
The teaser also has a brief voiceover by Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub — who has acted with Swara Bhasker in Raanjhanaa— although it is not clear whether Zeeshan is part of the Chauhaan cast. Directed by Neeraj Yadav, Chauhaan is set for theatrical release on October 1.
On a professional front, Swara hasn’t made a major film or OTT acting appearance in nearly 4 years. She was last seen in Jahaan Char Yaar (2022).