The web series are the latest targets of the right wing activists and the BJP in the country.
Amazon Prime series ‘Tandav’ and Netflix series ‘Mirzapur 2’ have become targets with cases being filed against them for allegedly hurting religious and caste sentiments. This is a gross attempt to intimidate the independent OTT platform. The web series ‘Tandav’, which stars Saif Ali Khan, Dimple Kapadia and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, was released on Friday. It quickly triggered protests and drew criticism on social media. In UP, a case was filed, saying it hurts religious sentiment.
The makers of the web series maintain that the show runs with a disclaimer that’s standard in the industry, and that ‘Tandav’ was a “work of fiction” and “any resemblance to acts and persons and events is purely coincidental.” Shockingly, even the I&B ministry intervened and sought an explanation from Amazon Prime after the controversy broke out. With controversy brewing and makers of the shows facing immense pressure, they not only apologized but also said they will make changes in the content “to address concerns.” This is a very dangerous trend that is evolving in the country. There is an attempt to control content in every sphere including OTT platform. Today independent journalists are hounded by right wing supporters and the government. Activists too are facing heat. Now the BJP government along with its ultra right wing supporters is trying to ‘fix’ the entertainment industry. They want the industry to work as per their narrative.