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'Gadar'
raises questions on freedom of script writing
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 The
controversy surrounding the film, 'Gadar-Ek Prem
Katha' has raised questions on the extent of freedom
of expression in writing film scripts.
A new aspect of script writing that has come to the
fore is that the writer has to charter his thoughts
and words in such a way that they do not affect the
sentiments of people.
Whether it is a satire, or a highly-charged drama or
a story based on a real life incident, the storyline
of the film decides its fate at the box office.
Hence it is the role of the script writer to ensure
that the story he churns out becomes the crux of the
film.
A cross-section of script writers feel that given
the volatile sentiments of the people, writers are
bound by their sensitivities and sensibilities to
prevent any disturbance.
According to script writer Dinkar Chaudhary, a film
is always passed by the censor board after following
proper guidelines. The board is the sole authority
of deciding on the release of the film.
Protests are just a business, with the protestors
always seeking monetary benefits for themselves.
 ''The
script writer is always guided by the producer and
director. They tell him their requirements and he
writes accordingly,'' says Chaudhary, a former
member of the Censor Board.
A film writer is a story manufacturer. He should
keep in mind that his writings should not hurt
anybody's sentiments.
Another writer Kamlesh Pandey says a writer is
supposed to be sensitive and sensible and far more
when it comes to writing. But at the same time, no
writer can make everybody happy. Sometimes, just for
the sake of exploiting others sentiments, there are
certain groups who play mischief. Writers are
normally sensitive and responsible but sometimes
they fall to temptations of popular demand which may
turn out to be crude.
He explains that sensitivities and sensibilities of
a writer are entirely subjective. There are
different definitions of patriotism and everyone
takes it in their own way and react accordingly. One
can use feelings or emotions in his or her own way.
A writer is just a writer, not a Hindu or a Muslim.
He should be democratic, secular, characteristics
which is an integral part of his sensitivity and
sensibility.
 Javed
Akhtar says script writers should also keep in mind
the growing intolerance among people and also keep
in mind their duty towards the society. He also said
that sometimes despite best efforts writers cannot
keep everybody happy.
Growing intolerance triggering instigations by
fundamentalists to oppose anything just for the sake
of protest to derive political mileage has made the
script writers cautious. Repeated controversies have
been whipped by people with doubtful credentials, he
says.
Dinkar Chaudhary feels that script writers write
what the producer and director tell them. Kamlesh
Pandey says writer should not leave his sensitivity
and sensibility aside while putting his thoughts
into words.
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