Anurag Kashyap¡¯s controversial Paanch to be out after 22 years: 5 banned movies which also deserve a release

Bollywood has seen its fair share of controversies, with films banned for several reasons including sensitive content, political themes, or cultural taboos. One of them which marked filmmaker Anurag Kashyap¡¯s debut in Hindi cinema - Paanch - is all set to release after 22 years as confirmed by producer Tutu Sharma. As we wait for this one, let¡¯s have a look at other banned movies which deserve a release as well.

Banned Bollywood movies which deserve to be released

1. Dazed in Doon (2010)

Directed by Ashvin Kumar, this controversial movie was supposed to highlight the goods of The Doon School but ended up catering to reality - which included parts where students were bullied. The school authorities moved to suppress the distribution of the film because according to them, it "didn't give the school a good name" and the matter remains sub-judiced. However, several alumnae who watched the movie in a private screening continue to support the plot.

2. The Pink Mirror (2003)

The Pink Mirror was one of India's first transgender films but was banned by the Censor Board for its portrayal of the transgender community. The film was criticized for being "offensive" and "vulgar," though many viewed it as a pioneering piece of work that shed light on the lives and struggles of transgender individuals. Directed by Sridhar Rangayan, the movie can be found on YouTube.

Also Read - 'That's A Serious Debate', Director Sridhar Rangayan Can't Stand Cis Actors Playing Trans Roles

3. Toofan Singh (2017)

Toofan Singh was banned for its depiction of Sikh youth and their struggles against injustice, which many saw as promoting separatist ideologies. The film explores the life of a militant member of the Khalistan Liberation Force who, after facing the trauma of violence and repression, turns to radicalism. The government feared it could provoke political unrest. While it remains banned in India, it was released internationally to positive reception.

4. India¡¯s Daughter (2015)

India¡¯s Daughter, a documentary directed by Leslee Udwin, explores the brutal 2012 Nirbhaya Delhi gang rape incident and its aftermath. The film was banned by the Indian government due to its sensitive nature and concerns over the potential for public unrest. It also included an interview with one of the rapists, which sparked outrage in the country. Many still await for film¡¯s big-screen debut.

5. Hava Aney Dey (2004)

Hava Aney Dey, a film by Partho Sen-Gupta, was banned for its portrayal of Kashmir and the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan. The film showed the impact of violence on the lives of ordinary people and a part of it focused on a Kashmiri girl¡¯s struggle to find peace. The film was seen as anti-national and was alleged to have a sympathetic portrayal of the separatist movement.

Which of these movies do you think deserves a release? Tell us @indiatimes.

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