The Kashmir Files – A propaganda and vulgar movie!

The 53rd International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa concluded with a controversy with Israeli filmmaker Nadav Lapid making some strong comments against the film ‘The Kashmir Files.’ Nadav Lapid was invited to IFFI and was also part of the panel of judges.

Addressing the gathering, Lapid said, “All of us (jury) were disturbed and shocked by the film ‘The Kashmir Files.’ Tha felt to us like a propaganda, vulgar movie, inappropriate for the artistic competition section of such a prestigious film festival.

The filmmaker further added that “I feel totally comfortable openly sharing these feelings here with you on this stage. Since, the spirit of the festival can surely also accept a critical discussion, which is essential for art and life.”

These comments and the video of Lapid went viral and created a huge uproar. Director Vivek Agnihotri who helmed ‘The Kashmir Files’ reacted to these comments in a cryptic manner. “GM Truth is the most dangerous thing. I can make people lie,” tweeted Vivek Agnihotri.

Meanwhile the IFFI board has issued a statement that filmmaker Lapid’s comments are completely his personal views/opinion and the board doesn’t endorse the comments. The filmmaker being a citizen of Israel, the country’s ambassador to India too responded. 

“You have abused in the worst way the Indian invitation to chair the panel of judges at @IFFIGoa as well as the trust, respect and warm hospitality they have bestowed on you,” wrote ambassador Naor Gilon.

The Kashmir Files is based on the crimes against Kashmiri Pandits during the 90s when militancy was at its peaks in the valley region. The film went on to collect Rs 350 crore at the Indian box office and was highly promoted by BJP governments across several Indian states.