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Shonali Bose reacts on why she doesn't stand up during the national anthem in theatres, "I feel a movie theatre is not the appropriate place to shove nationalism..."

16 May-2023 13:05 PM

Written By: Rokhshan Adajania

There has been much discussion on social media over the years over whether or not the national anthem should be played in movie theatres before the film begins. While many defend it, those who don't are harshly criticized online and by the audience at the movies. After purposefully choosing not to stand for the playing of the national anthem while attending a movie screening, filmmaker Shonali Bose recently found herself on the receiving end of outrage, nasty remarks, and criticism.

After receiving harassment, The Sky Is Pink filmmaker even turned to her own Instagram account to express her opinion about why she thinks movie theatres shouldn't play the national anthem. She said that since the Supreme Court mandated the playing of the national anthem in cinemas in 2016, she has never stood up because she believes that such an occasion is improper for the government to compel its people to practice patriotism and nationalism.

In a recent interview with Mid-Day, she went into further detail about her position on the entire controversy. She said to the media outlet that even though she loves and respects the nation and the national anthem, she will never stand for it at a movie theatre. She described how it is quite impolite for individuals to simply remain still while munching on popcorn and having casual talks. A real sense of patriotism, according to her, should be nurtured ‘through education, understanding, and actions that contributed to the welfare of the nation.’

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shonali Bose (@shonalibose_)

The 57-year-old director recalled the whole event, including how a man seated behind her began yelling at her and labeling her 'disgusting and unpatriotic' for not standing during the national anthem. She described how a female who was already there joined him shortly after. She added, “I turned around, and asked them to shut up. The lady was so uncouth that I could feel her legs on my chair. Though I was sure of what I was doing, my stomach had tightened.”

Bose further added, “I feel a movie theatre is not the appropriate place to shove nationalism down our throats. That is what I am protesting. It is disrespectful that people have popcorn in their mouths when they get up to show ‘respect’.”

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