The film “Bawaal,” directed by Nitesh Tiwari and starring Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor, has come under scrutiny for its controversial portrayal of the Holocaust and Hitler. Following criticism from the Jewish organization The Simon Wiesenthal Center, the Israeli embassy has also expressed its concern over the movie’s “trivialization” of the Holocaust in a statement. The film revolves around a high school history teacher and his wife on a Europe tour, visiting historical World War 2 sites, including Auschwitz and Anne Frank’s home. The movie includes controversial lines comparing marital discord to Auschwitz and greedy individuals to Hitler, as well as a fantasy sequence with the lead actors in striped pyjamas at a Nazi camp.
Israeli Embassy’s Response
In its statement, the Israeli embassy expressed its disturbance over the film’s use of Holocaust terminology and symbolism. While acknowledging that no malice may have been intended, the embassy urged people to educate themselves about the horrors of the Holocaust. The embassy is committed to disseminating educational materials on this crucial subject and is open to engaging in conversations to foster a better understanding of the universal lessons derived from the Holocaust. Israeli ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, also highlighted the need for awareness about the Holocaust and criticized the trivialization depicted in the film.
Jewish Organization’s Critique
The Simon Wiesenthal Center had previously criticized the film, stating that using Auschwitz as a metaphor is disrespectful to the memory of the millions who suffered and died during the Holocaust. The organization’s associate dean, Rabbi Abraham Cooper, emphasized that Auschwitz is not a metaphor but a harrowing example of humanity’s capacity for evil. The organization called for Amazon Prime, the platform where the film is available, to remove the scenes trivializing the Holocaust.
Nitesh Tiwari’s Explanation
Director Nitesh Tiwari responded to the criticisms, stating that he carefully chose historical incidents and events that contribute to the development of the film’s characters and their relationships. He clarified that World War 2 is a significant period with much to say, and he incorporated chapters from history to shape the characters’ arcs.
The film “Bawaal” has faced serious allegations of trivializing the Holocaust and using inappropriate metaphors. While the filmmaker explains his intention to depict historical incidents, criticisms from the Israeli embassy and Jewish organization highlight the need for sensitivity and understanding when dealing with such significant historical events.
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