Naseeruddin Shah said he hopes the disputed religion card would "wear off" one day, given that it is currently...
Digital Desk: Actor Naseeruddin Shah believes it's "worrying" how "undisguised propaganda" is being pushed to the masses through art, which is an alarming reflection of the present Islamophobic culture.
Shah, who is also an outspoken opponent of the ruling BJP administration, claimed hatred of Muslims is being "cleverly" exploited and has become "fashionable." The actor is now starring as Mughal emperor Akbar in ZEE5's Taj: Reign of Revenge.
When asked if it is a disturbing sign that certain films and series are being used as a vehicle of disinformation and propaganda, Shah responded that the mood on-screen is a reflection of what is happening on the ground: open Islamophobia being used to get votes in elections.
"Of course, these are worrisome times. Pure, unadulterated propaganda is being devoured, and it is a reflection of the ethos of the times. Muslim hatred is popular these days, especially among the educated. This is what the ruling party has very cleverly tapped upon. "We talk about secularism and democracy, so why are you bringing religion into everything?" Shah remarked.
The veteran stated the electoral commission is a quiet bystander to politicians exploiting religion to win votes, and that if a Muslim leader had sought votes using "Allahu Akbar," there would have been a total disaster. The aim, according to Shah, is that the divisive religion card will one day "wear off," as Prime Minister Narendra Modi attempted and failed to utilise it to his advantage.
"I mean, how spineless is our election commission?" Who doesn't dare to say anything? If a Muslim leader had stated, 'Allah Hu Akbar bol ke button dabao,' sh*t would have hit the fan. he said.
"However, our Prime Minister says things like this and still loses." So I'm hoping this will fade off. But it is undeniably at its pinnacle right now. This government has played a clever card, and it has worked. Let's see how long it keeps working," he added.
Taj: Reign of Revenge, which also stars Aashim Gulati, is currently available now on ZEE5.
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