13th August 2023,Mumbai: Zeishan Quadri, the accomplished writer behind Anurag Kashyap’s celebrated creation, “Gangs of Wasseypur,” recently expressed his views on the much-anticipated film “Adipurush.” In an interview with ETimes, Quadri weighed in on the film’s dialogues and the controversy it sparked, asserting that the writers lacked the necessary maturity and research when handling a subject as significant as Ramayan.
Adipurush: Anticipation and Backlash
Om Raut’s “Adipurush” had been generating substantial buzz as one of the most eagerly awaited films of the year. However, following its release in June, the film faced an unexpected backlash due to its portrayal of characters and its handling of the revered epic, Ramayan. The film’s writer-actor, Zeishan Quadri, has now openly criticized the writing team, deeming them immature and calling attention to the need for in-depth research before venturing into such sensitive territory.
Ramayan: Beyond Fiction, a Cultural Pillar
In the interview, Quadri emphasized that the Ramayan isn’t just a story but a cornerstone of religious beliefs and culture. He urged that the writers should have treated the subject with more gravity and respect. Comparing it to his experience working on “Gangs of Wasseypur,” Quadri highlighted the extensive research put into ensuring the accurate portrayal of events and themes. He contended that a film’s reach is global, making the responsibility of precise and sensitive representation even more crucial.
The Impact of Immature Writing
Quadri didn’t mince his words when addressing the issue at hand. He criticized the writers for their immature approach, asserting that the initial dialogues were inappropriate and misrepresented the essence of the story. His stance echoed the sentiments of many who felt that the film’s representation of mythological events was inadequate and failed to capture the essence of the source material. This misstep, according to Quadri, significantly affected the global audience’s perception of the film.
Research and Audience Awareness
The acclaimed writer stressed the importance of understanding the audience’s diverse sentiments. He contended that despite variations in religion, every Indian is familiar with the Ramayan, making audience research a paramount consideration. Quadri argued that the “Adipurush” writers missed an opportunity to gauge how the audience would respond to their approach. By underestimating the audience’s emotional connection to the Ramayan, the film Inadvertently caused widespread upset and disappointment.
Adipurush: A Controversial Journey
“Adipurush,” inspired by the Hindu epic Ramayan, was co-written by Om Raut and Manoj Muntashir. However, its journey to the big screen was marred by controversies. Initial backlash erupted due to perceived issues with visual effects and character portrayal. In particular, the representation of Raghav (Ram), Janaki (Sita), and Raavan drew intense criticism. The film’s release faced multiple hurdles, with objections raised in Nepal and within India, leading to legal cases and sentiments of religious hurt.
Course Correction and Consequences
Acknowledging the outcry, the filmmakers made adjustments to the dialogues and aspects of the film. Despite these attempts to quell the controversies, “Adipurush” faced ongoing challenges, including a pending case in the Supreme Court. The film’s financial performance was initially promising, earning significant box office returns, but the momentum dwindled post the opening weekend, raising questions about its lasting impact.
Zeishan Quadri: From Wasseypur to Critique
Zeishan Quadri’s prominence surged in 2012 with the release of “Gangs of Wasseypur,” a collaboration with director Anurag Kashyap. Notably, Quadri’s role in co-writing the film showcased his storytelling prowess. He has since participated in various cinematic ventures, both as an actor and director. His criticism of “Adipurush” is informed by his experience in crafting compelling narratives, underscoring the significance of mature and well-researched writing.
Zeishan Quadri’s critique of the dialogues and writing in “Adipurush” highlights the intricacies involved in translating revered cultural narratives to the cinematic realm. His perspective draws attention to the responsibility writers shoulder when dealing with subjects deeply embedded in religious and cultural beliefs. The “Adipurush” controversy serves as a reminder that, when handling material of profound significance, thorough research, sensitivity, and maturity are essential to create a film that resonates positively with audiences worldwide.
-by Kashvi Gala