Pushpa 2 vs Interstellar: Janhvi Kapoor Criticizes Western Bias in Indian Cinema Debate

Pushpa 2 vs Interstellar: The much-anticipated release of Pushpa 2: The Rule has inadvertently sparked an intense debate in India’s cinematic circles, fueled by Janhvi Kapoor’s vocal defense of the film amidst criticism. The controversy stems from Pushpa 2 monopolizing IMAX screens in India, leading to the postponement of the re-release of Christopher Nolan’s iconic Interstellar.

Janhvi Kapoor took to Instagram to vent out her frustration with the backlash, speaking to what she believes is an enduring bias against Indian cinema. She reacted to a critical article by Tatva India titled “India doesn’t deserve cinema,” which mourned the IMAX screens being completely taken over by Sukumar’s Pushpa 2, leaving fans of Nolan from watching Interstellar in IMAX.

In her reaction, Janhvi wrote, “Pushpa 2 is also cinema. Why are we so obsessed with idolising the West and running down things that come out of our own country, instantly disqualifying them as unworthy?

The actor argued that the larger-than-life narratives with which Indian films are celebrated abroad are dismissed at home. She said, “The same rooted representation and larger-than-life tone that other countries appreciate and are fascinated by in our cinema is what we, ourselves, look down upon. Sad.”

Mixed Reactions Online

This comment of Janhvi sparked a heated debate on social media. Supporters appreciated the fact that she spoke, and one user commented, “People who watch Western films behave like they’re in an upper class compared to those who watch Indian movies.” Others, however, countered her opinion.

“If the visuals of Pushpa 2 are anything to go by, then this is cinema we ought to be embarrassed of. Please don’t see this as East vs. West; you’re smarter than that,” wrote a dissenting user.

Sukumar-directed Pushpa 2: The Rule continues the story of Pushpa Raj, played by Allu Arjun, a red sandalwood smuggler striving for respect amidst familial and legal challenges. The sequel goes deeper into his struggles with estranged family members and police officer Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, played by Fahadh Faasil. Rashmika Mandanna reprises her role as Srivalli, Pushpa’s wife.

Released on December 5, the film has already been making waves at the box office, with fans celebrating its gripping narrative and action sequences. Meanwhile, the decision to prioritize Pushpa 2 over the Interstellar re-release remains a contentious topic, reflecting broader discussions about the valuation of Indian and Western cinema.

While the debate is still on, Janhvi Kapoor’s comments have underlined the increasing sentiment that Indian cinema be celebrated on par with world cinema.