Suhasini Mulay Speaks Out on 'Ikkis' Backlash and Film Industry Trends
Veteran actor and filmmaker Suhasini Mulay recently opened up about the trolling faced by the movie 'Ikkis'. The film, directed by Sriram Raghavan, tells the story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, a Paramvir Chakra awardee honored posthumously for his bravery. Mulay shared her thoughts during a conversation with journalists at the Gauhati Press Club on Sunday.
Addressing Criticism Over Pakistan Portrayal
Suhasini Mulay explained that 'Ikkis' did not depict Pakistanis as monsters or villains. Instead, the film presented them as human beings with their own complexities. She revealed that the scriptwriter informed her about the online trolling the movie received for this approach.
"If you are in this society in this era, then you will be trolled," Mulay stated frankly. "So, you don't make such films. You make 'The Kashmir Files', you will get your entertainment tax waived." Her comments highlight the current climate where certain narratives receive preferential treatment while others face backlash.
Mulay's Vision for Effective Cinema
The experienced actress believes a good film should accomplish three key things. First, it must avoid being boring and keep the audience engaged from start to finish. Second, it needs to be well-made technically and artistically, not just well-intentioned. Third, and most importantly, the director's message should clearly reach viewers.
"And lastly, it should make you think," Mulay emphasized. "I think these three are the criteria for an effective as well as good film." She stressed that movies should leave a lasting impression that continues to resonate after people leave the theater.
Concerns About Violence and Political Cinema
During the discussion, Mulay expressed concern about current trends in political filmmaking. She observed that much of today's political cinema leans toward right-wing ideologies with strong religious themes becoming commonplace.
The filmmaker noted a significant increase in violent content, both physical and psychological, that wasn't as prevalent in earlier cinema. "There has been an incredible projection of violence, which we never saw earlier," she remarked. "And it is both mental and physical."
About 'Ikkis' and Its Reception
In 'Ikkis', Suhasini Mulay portrayed Maheshwari Khetarpal, mother of Arun Khetarpal who was played by Agastya Nanda. The film premiered in theaters on January 1, 2026, but struggled commercially despite its historical subject matter and critical approach to storytelling.
Mulay's candid observations come at a time when Indian cinema faces increasing polarization. Her comments shed light on the challenges filmmakers encounter when attempting nuanced portrayals in an environment where simplistic narratives often gain more traction.
The veteran actress's perspective offers valuable insight into how experienced artists navigate the complex intersection of art, politics, and public reception in contemporary Indian cinema.
