Shahid Kapoor Discusses Challenges of Making Politically Charged Films in Current Times

Shahid Kapoor shared his views on the difficulty of making politically charged films today, citing the challenges faced by films like Haider. He reflected on his experience with the emotionally intense graveyard scene and mentioned that controversial topics are harder to explore in the current film landscape.

Actor Shahid Kapoor, known for his standout performance in Vishal Bharadwaj’s Haider (2014), expressed his belief that making politically charged or controversial films is increasingly difficult in today's climate. During a session at SCREEN Live in Mumbai, the actor reflected on his iconic role in Haider, which highlighted the tensions in Kashmir during the 1990s.

Shahid noted that creating such films is not feasible anymore, citing the current atmosphere of censorship and resistance towards controversial topics. Haider, a commercial success, featured Shahid in a heart-wrenching scene where he breaks down in front of his father’s grave, a moment that became one of the film’s most memorable.

The actor recalled the intensity of shooting that scene, where he deliberately avoided glycerin for the emotional shot. “The camera was far away, and I was in front of my father’s grave, trying to give my best without relying on artificial tears,” said Shahid. “The only thing I remember is my numb hands, possibly from the cold, and Vishal sir holding me after the shot was over,” he added.

Haider, adapted from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, was a gripping exploration of Kashmir’s political turmoil. Shahid’s comments highlight the growing difficulty for filmmakers to explore politically sensitive subjects in the current industry environment.

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Shahid Kapoor will next be seen in Deva, where he plays a rebellious police officer. The film, which also stars Pooja Hegde, is set to release on January 31.