Reflections on the Censorship of 'Glory to Hanuman' in 'Black Panther'

When the Indian Censor Board muted the words 'Glory to Hanuman' in 'Black Panther,' it sparked a mix of emotions and discussions within the Hindu community and globally. The decision to mute this phrase in a scene involving ‘M’Baku of the Jabari Tribe’ has been a topic of debate for many. While some argue that the decision is rooted in cultural sensitivity, others see it as a missed opportunity to connect with a broad audience.

The Researchers' Perspective

It's worth noting that the names in the film were decently researched. The inclusion of 'Hanuman' as a name for the 'God of the Jabari tribe' honors the rich narrative and cultural heritage. However, some Hindus argue that the research wasn't extensive enough. For instance, Hanuman is considered a powerful monkey god, not a gorilla, in Hindu beliefs. This detail, though seemingly minor, resonates deeply with millions of devotees. The M'babu—M'Baku's character—defeating T'challa in the film was a moment of pride for many Hindus, as it showcased the acceptance of their beliefs on a global stage. The use of 'Hanuman' in the MCU is indeed a form of honor, highlighting the heritage and beliefs of the Indian community.

A Disappointing Revelation

My initial reaction was one of shock, not disappointment. The moment I saw the scene, where M'Baku's lips moved as if saying 'Glory to Hanuman,' my heart leaped with joy. I instantly thought, 'Did he just say Hanuman? ' I turned to my brother, and he was unimpressed, having missed the significance. The inclusion of the name 'Hanuman' in the MCU is a significant step towards recognition and respect for Hindu beliefs. However, the decision to mute 'Glory to Hanuman' is disappointing.

As a Hindu, the mute was a form of insult. This single word was a nod to one of the most revered deities in the Hindu religion. It was a perfect representation of the rich cultural heritage. The decision to mute it seems unnecessary, given that it was just a name with no direct religious significance. The role of the Censor Board is to protect the social fabric, but in this case, they overstepped their moral boundaries.

Previously Misrepresented Hollywood Scenes

Looking back, it's evident that Hollywood has often portrayed India in a stereotypical and stereotypical fashion. In recent years, the representation has indeed improved. For instance, in 'Avengers: Infinity War,' a sequence is set in Kolkata to establish the location. However, the scene largely uses generic and stereotypical elements like poverty, slums, and foreigners in 'Indian-looking' outfits. Similarly, in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming,' another setting in India or the subcontinent is marked by an extravagant Indian wedding and foreigners in 'Indian-looking' outfits.

It's crucial to recognize that these scenes, though stereotypical, were a step towards acknowledging the large audience that identifies as Indian. Yet, it's disheartening that such mild stereotypes are still a part of Hollywood's narrative. The Censor Board's decision to mute 'Glory to Hanuman' while allowing other potentially offensive scenes to remain intact seems selective and incoherent.

India's Censor Board: A Double Standard?

It's important to note that the decision to mute a single word in a single scene is not an isolated incident. The Censor Board of India has previously given the green light to scenes that could be seen as offensive or stereotypical. Scenes in 'Avengers' and 'Spider-Man' were not cut despite their portrayal of India in a low-key and stereotypical manner. This discrepancy highlights a double standard in the Censor Board's approach.

In conclusion, while the inclusion of 'Hanuman' in 'Black Panther' was a step forward, the decision to mute the phrase was a step backward. The Censor Board should prioritize cultural sensitivity and coherence in their decision-making process. Allowing the inclusion of 'Glory to Hanuman' would have set a precedent for more respectful and accurate representations in future films.