31st May 2023, Mumbai: Naseeruddin Shah, a veteran artist from Bollywood, is known for fearlessly expressing his opinions. In an exclusive video interview with Bollywood Hungama, Shah shared his perspective on the demonization of the Mughals by people associated with the ruling party and their supporters.
According to Shah, the Mughals are targeted because they are widely recognized throughout the world. The term “Mogul” has even become an English and American word, often associated with movie moguls. By vilifying the Mughals, the present government finds it convenient to portray all Muslims in a negative light, accusing them of looting the country, destroying temples, and engaging in polygamy. Shah argues that such actions were not unique to the Mughals but were common among many kings.
To support his point, Shah brings up the example of Alexander the Great, who is celebrated in history despite the destruction he caused during his conquests. In Iran, however, he is regarded as a devil due to his role in destroying Persepolis and wiping out the Zoroastrian community, which had supported the Iranian king.Shah also mentions the stories of barbarism associated with Babur and Humayun that are often propagated. Referring to Humayun, he humorously states that the poor guy was an opium addict who probably fell down the stairs one day while being too stoned. Shah criticizes the focus on these negative aspects and the portrayal of Aurangzeb as the ultimate villain. He reminds people that there were several Turkic dynasties that existed before the Mughal dynasty in India.
According to Shah, it is incorrect to claim that the Mughals came to India with the intention of plundering its riches. He argues that they came to establish India as their homeland, rather than simply looting and leaving. Shah also points out that many people are unaware of the actions of figures like Nadirshah, who looted the peacock throne, destroyed Delhi, and massacred its citizens before leaving.
Shah also addresses the issue of the changing school syllabi, which he believes is driven by a particular political ideology. He mentions that the theory of evolution is being removed from textbooks, and he speculates that even the contributions of figures like Einstein may be excluded in the future. Shah further criticizes the head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for claiming that all scientific discoveries are present in the Vedas and that the West falsely takes credit for them.
When asked if he has always been rebellious, Shah humorously admits to having a problem with figures of authority throughout his life. He rebelled against his father, his upbringing, and the authorities at various stages of his education and career, including schools, college, drama school, and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).