Bombay High Court gives green signal to Hamare Baarah featuring Annu Kapoor, says it respects women and Islam Hamare Baarah: What the Court Saw
However, what the court saw in Hamare Baarah:
Uplifting Women: They further pointed out that there is one scene where a Muslim confronts a Maulana who misinterprets the Quran. This was taken as an encouragement of critical analysis against religious dogmatism.
Non-incitement of Violence: The court categorically stated that it would not foment violence and that people can make informed choices.
Background to the Controversy over Hamare Baarah
This film has been controversial since June when petitions were filed against this Indian movie for allegedly portraying Muslims negatively and misrepresenting the Quran. Initially, release was postponed by High Court in Mumbai but later allowed on condition that certain scenes which were considered objectionable by India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) be expunged.
What the court said about the trailer from Hamare Baarah and religious sensitivity:
The first mistake from makers of this movie was releasing initial trailer without getting CBFC certification. For this mistake they will be fined an amount which should be directed towards any charity organization picked by claimants.
Though appreciating creativity, but at the same time cautioning filmmakers to exercise restraint especially with regard to content that might offend religious feelings. They made it clear that respect for all religions including Islam (which is India’s second largest religion) is paramount.
Furthermore, petitioners wanted to alert other viewers on how domestic violence is promoted through such movies as this one. But according to Court, home violence knows no religion.
