Parasakthi Uncensored: A Win for Creative Freedom
The film "Parasakthi" has recently gained attention after an uncensored version was released on Zee5, much to the delight of its audience. Initially, the film faced criticism due to the number of words that were muted or altered in the censored version, which premiered on February 7. Following the outcry, Zee5 announced on February 12 that the uncensored version was now available for streaming, stating, “We heard you all! Uncensored is finally here!” This announcement was met with excitement from fans eager to see the original content.
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) had mandated 25 cuts and modifications to the film before it received a UA rating. This included muting 11 phrases, some of which contained expletives and references to Hindi imposition. The filmmakers were also instructed to tone down violent scenes and visuals of an effigy burning. These changes were made under tight deadlines, with Sudha Kongara, the director, revealing that they received the cut list just two days before the film's release. In a statement, she expressed her frustration with the last-minute changes, stating they had little time to contest the cuts.
"Parasakthi," which translates to "The Power of the Goddess," is a political action drama that explores the anti-Hindi imposition agitation in 1960s Tamil Nadu. The film features prominent actors like Sivakarthikeyan and Sreeleela, and it has sparked conversations not only about its content but also about the broader implications of censorship in India. The narrative follows two brothers involved in the protests, bringing to light the socio-political tensions of that era.
Despite the mixed reviews from critics, "Parasakthi" has performed exceptionally well at the box office, grossing over ₹100 crore worldwide. The absence of competition due to the delay of Vijay's film "Jana Nayagan" also contributed to its success. The film's release and subsequent uncensored version have ignited discussions about artistic freedom and the role of censorship in the Indian film industry, making it a noteworthy addition to contemporary cinema.
