In the midst of filming for his latest project ‘Amaran’, actor Sivakarthikeyan has found himself at the center of controversy. Directed by Rajkumar Periasamy, the movie narrates the life story of Major Mukund Varadharajan, a soldier who sacrificed his life during a 2014 counter-terrorism operation in Kashmir. Produced by Kamal Haasan, the film features Sai Pallavi as the female lead, with music composed by GV Prakash Kumar.
The release of the film’s teaser has sparked outrage, as it is being accused of presenting a particular religious community in a derogatory manner. Allegations claim that Muslims are negatively portrayed in the teaser, leading to widespread protests across Tamil Nadu. Social media platforms have been inundated with videos depicting demonstrations taking place in various locations within the state.
The Tamilaga Makkal Jananayaga Katchi (TMJK) has thrown its support behind the protesters, condemning what they perceive as a derogatory depiction of Muslims in the film’s teaser. The contentious scene in question involves Sivakarthikeyan leading the Indian battalion 44 Rashtriya Rifles Cheetah company in a battle against terrorists who have unlawfully seized control of Kashmir. The clip includes a moment where Indian soldiers, along with others, are held captive by a Muslim group and face threats.
Accusing the teaser of portraying Muslims in a negative light, protesters throughout Tamil Nadu have been vocal in their opposition to Sivakarthikeyan and Kamal Haasan. Slogans against the two actors rang out during the demonstrations, with protesters urging the state government to intervene and ban the film. The tensions escalated to the point where police intervention was required, resulting in arrests in Tirunelveli, Tirupur, and Cuddalore as individuals attempted to burn effigies of Sivakarthikeyan and Kamal Haasan.