Yami Gautam-starrer “Article 370” has been performing well at the Indian box office since its release, but it came as a surprise when the film was banned in the Gulf countries. The region boasts a large number of Hindi cinema enthusiasts, and the inability to watch the movie in theaters has been disappointing for them. Yami herself has addressed the ban, expressing her belief that the film does not contain anything offensive.
In an interview with Variety, Yami Gautam shared her thoughts on the ban, stating, “We really didn’t anticipate this because we feel there is nothing in the film, which is offensive. The way it’s performing here in India, I don’t see anybody being offended with the film. In fact, people are putting out the word that this is not a propaganda film. (Nevertheless) there will be some people who, without watching, will pass a judgement and we are used to it. And they are saying to themselves, you come out of the film feeling proud and patriotic. And this is something which led to very important peace and development in a state like Kashmir.”
Yami also addressed the film being labeled as jingoistic, emphasizing that it’s a matter of perspective. “What might be jingoism for somebody, is patriotism for me. (Watching the film in a theatre was one of the) best experiences in recent times. We were all clapping and hooting and they’re all strangers sitting next to each other, but if you can infuse that feeling of oneness, that you feel good about something, I think that’s an achievement. I like to see the bigger story, the positive story, and go home with that.”
It’s worth noting that Yami Gautam, who portrays an intelligence officer in “Article 370,” filmed her scenes during her pregnancy.
“Article 370” is set against the backdrop of the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Alongside Yami Gautam, the film features Priyamani, Arun Govil, and Kiran Karmarkar in pivotal roles. Directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, the film is jointly produced by Aditya Dhar, Jyoti Deshpande, and Lokesh Dhar.