The Controversy Surrounding Vijay’s Film Sarkar: An In-Depth Look

When Vijay released his film Sarkar in 2018, it immediately became the subject of controversy. This article delves into the various issues that arose before and after the release of the film, focusing on the political backlash, censorship issues, and allegations of plagiarism.

Pre-Release Controversies

Pre-release, writer Varun Rajendran accused the director A. R. Murugadoss of plagiarism, claiming that the storyline of Sarkar was similar to a story he had registered in 2007 under the name 'Sengol.' Murugadoss admitted the similarities, and a legal agreement was reached. As a result, after the film's title card, a thank-you note was flashed, thanking Varun Rajendran, and the producer agreed to compensate him with 30 lakh rupees. This controversy brought the film into the limelight before its official release.

Post-Release Controversies

Post-release, the film faced significant political backlash. Upon its release, the AIADMK party, an influential political party in Tamil Nadu, protested at theaters where the film was screened. They even went as far as damaging the banners of Vijay. Kalanithi Maran, a prominent figure and the producer of the film, was named as a suspect in the AIADMK's accusations.

The government of Tamil Nadu also came out against the film. They accused the filmmakers and Vijay of targeting the ruling government and defaming the former chief minister J. Jayalalitha, who was the leader of the AIADMK. The government even threatened legal action if the filmmakers did not comply with their demands.

Actor Support and Censorship

Several well-known actors and filmmakers, including Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, voiced their support for the filmmakers, opposing any form of censorship. They argued that the film was accepted by the censor board and should not be further scrutinized. Eventually, under pressure from the Tamil Nadu government, the filmmakers had to edit some scenes and mute references to former chief minister J. Jayalalitha in the audio track.

The Film’s Context and Reception

Sarkar is a political action film directed by A. R. Murugadoss with Vijay Keerthy Suresh and Varalaxmi Sarathkumar in the lead roles. The film centers around a corporate executive who returns to Tamil Nadu to cast his vote in the state election. Upon discovering that his vote has already been recorded, he takes up the fight against electoral fraud and enters the election as an independent candidate.

The film, despite its controversial nature, garnered attention for its take on political themes and its plot. It was a bold step for Vijay, showcasing his willingness to challenge the status quo and address sensitive political issues in the Tamil film industry.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding Vijay’s film Sarkar is a testament to the often contentious nature of political films in India. The film faced significant pressure and backlash from political entities, leading to a complex situation involving censorship, legal action, and public opinion. Despite the challenges, Sarkar remains an important film in the cultural and political landscape of Tamil Nadu and India.

For those interested in learning more about the film, its controversies, and its context, this article provides a detailed and comprehensive overview. Whether you are a film enthusiast or just curious about the politics of the subcontinent, this piece should provide valuable insights.