Masked Khalistani Activists Disrupt Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency Screening in the UK
A screening of Kangana Ranaut’s latest film Emergency was disrupted on Sunday night at Harrow Vue cinema in London by masked Khalistani activists. The protesters, chanting anti-India slogans and distributing pamphlets about the Sikh genocide, forced the screening to be canceled, leaving the Indian diaspora attendees shaken.
Chaotic Scene at the Cinema
Saloni Belaid, a British Indian who was present at the screening, described the atmosphere as chaotic. “Masked individuals stormed in, shouting ‘Down with India.’ They bypassed staff without tickets and began handing out flyers. Many fled in fear, but my friends and I chose to confront them,” she said.
While the police arrived quickly, no arrests were made. Authorities cited the protesters’ right to demonstrate as long as no harm was caused. Despite some audience members requesting to continue, the screening was canceled as the staff appeared visibly shaken.
Protest Allegations
Jasveer Singh of the Sikh Press Association, which supports the protests, claimed that Emergency is “anti-Sikh Indian state propaganda.” The disruptions have reportedly led to canceled screenings in several UK cities. British Sikh groups allege that the film portrays Sikhs in a negative light, exacerbating tensions.
Film Overview and Reception
Released on January 17, 2025, Emergency depicts the controversial Emergency period in India (1975-1977) under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. While Kangana Ranaut’s performance as Indira Gandhi has received widespread acclaim, critics have described the storytelling as disorganized. The film explores Gandhi’s political legacy, focusing on themes of power, resilience, and moral dilemmas.
Broader Implications
The protests have sparked debates around freedom of expression, historical representation, and the responsibilities of cinema in addressing sensitive topics. The incident also highlights ongoing tensions within the Indian diaspora over political and cultural narratives.
This disruption adds a contentious layer to the film’s reception, underlining the challenges of portraying polarizing historical events on the global stage.
