Controversial film ‘72 Hoorain’ sparks outrage and accusations of Islamophobia

NEW DELHI — After the recent controversy surrounding ‘The Kerala Story’, another film titled ‘72 Hoorain’ directed by Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan is poised to spark further debates. However, as soon as the teaser was released, netizens called it another propaganda project to defame Muslims and Islam.

“72 Hoorain” has recently unveiled its first look, leading to a significant controversy on Twitter with many blaming the makers for disturbing communal harmony in India.

The teaser of the movie showcases images of figures including Osama Bin Laden, Ajmal Kasab, and a mixed-up photo of Yakub Memon. This depiction strongly suggests that the film revolves around Muslims and cashes on Islamophobia.

The trailer further highlights Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed, both of whom have been recognized as ‘terrorists’ by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The trailer of the Bollywood film was shared on Twitter by the co-director of the film Ashoke Pandit who’s a Kashmiri Pandit.

“As promised, presenting to you the first look of our film #72Hoorain. I am sure you will like it. What if you end up dying a brutal death instead of meeting 72 virgins, as assured by terrorist mentors? Presenting the first look of my upcoming film “72 Hoorain”. The film is slated to release on 7 July 2023,” he said in a tweet.

The film “72 Hoorain” is directed by Sanjay Puran Singh, a National Award winner, and produced by Gulab Singh Tanwar. The movie stars Aamir Bashir and Pawan Malhotra in lead roles. It has been announced that the film will be released in theatres on July 7, 2023.

The director of the film while releasing the trailer said, “These people inject poison in their minds and make common people suicide bombers. We must remember that the attackers are from families like ours who are victims of perverted beliefs and brainwashing by terrorist leaders and lead them on the path of destruction.”

This is the third Hindi film to claim that it focuses on the subject of “Islamic extremism”, following the releases of “The Kashmir Files” and “The Kerala Story.”

These films have been promoted by the BJP and have been made tax-free in various states. However, they have also sparked controversy and led to attacks on Muslims in several parts of India.