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Out of all the popular opinions typically heard at the cinema, the idea that Mahatma Gandhi was overrated is not often mentioned. However, this Hindi film about Hindu nationalist leader Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (directed and co-written by Randeep Hooda, also portraying Savarkar with a convincing and engaging performance) argues for this belief. Though, it is worth noting that Savarkar himself states: “I do not dislike Gandhi, I simply reject non-violence.” Overall, the film’s nearly three-hour duration advocates the idea that, contrary to the well-known phrase, the sword holds more power than the pen. Savarkar encourages his followers to “discard the pen and arm yourselves” in this stance.
The film’s lack of utilization of its subject’s principles is surprising. Many have debated the issue of whether violence depicted on screen is too alluring or glorified – but it seems the creators of Swatantra Veer Savarkar are not aware of the impactful nature of cinematic images. Despite attempting to glorify a man known for promoting violent revolution, the biopic fails to deliver significant action.
The biopic could have easily portrayed Savarkar as a brave hero who physically fights his enemies, considering its political agenda. However, the majority of the film focuses on Savarkar’s time studying law in the UK, having casual conversations in libraries with influential figures like Lenin, and enduring the harsh conditions in the notorious Cellular Jail where political prisoners were tortured by the British. While it may have been tempting to portray Savarkar as a macho commando, the film chooses to stick to the facts instead of glorifying his character. However, the film seems to overlook uncomfortable truths, such as Savarkar’s real-life support for Adolf Hitler’s Germany, where his speeches were published in newspapers with approval. Overall, the film is a strange mix of heroism and mediocre filmmaking, although it does feature a strong central performance.
Source: theguardian.com
