Reflecting on Kabir Singh: A Toxic Legacy in Cinema

The Controversial Release of Kabir Singh

Upon its release on June 21, 2019, I never anticipated that anything could be more harmful than the impending Covid pandemic. At that time, the virus was still eight months away. Unfortunately, I initially commended the film for its boldness in portraying its main character as a deeply flawed, drug-addicted, and misogynistic individual who resorts to violence against his girlfriend for defending her father after an insult.

Shahid Kapoor's portrayal of Kabir Singh emanates from a profoundly toxic mindset. He acts on impulse, even performing a critical surgery while intoxicated, which predictably results in the patient's death. Such a character should have been excluded from any medical profession and cinematic narrative.

Yet, we celebrated this character not just once but twice. When Vijay Deverakonda portrayed Arjun Reddy, there was a rebellious essence to the character, suggesting a complex backstory that contributed to his obnoxious behavior.

However, when Shahid Kapoor took on the same role two years later, it became unacceptable from both perspectives—his portrayal of a creepy stalker and our acceptance of the film, which merely changed its title from Arjun Reddy to Kabir Singh. The essence remained unchanged; both actors embodied equally obnoxious characters.

In a conversation with director Sandeep Vanga about the toxicity in Arjun/Kabir, he stated, 'Honesty in a committed relationship can manifest violently. Why is only Kabir's violence discussed? Preeti also retaliates. Emotions can be raw and violent in genuine relationships.' He believed that the film resonated deeply with youth, overshadowing critical reviews.

I strongly disagree with Vanga's perspective. I believe that an artist's character is intertwined with their work. For instance, Lata Mangeshkar's soulful singing reflects her purity, while Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Anurag Kashyap's films convey their values.

Interestingly, Vanga's upcoming film is titled Animal, previously known as Devil.

Arjun Kapoor narrowly missed out on the role; his father Boney Kapoor had traveled to Hyderabad to negotiate the remake rights for his son, but Vanga was already committed to Shahid Kapoor. I often wonder how Shahid's children will perceive Kabir Singh when they eventually watch their father's performances.

In retrospect, I believe everyone involved with Kabir Singh should apologize for promoting toxic masculinity and misogyny. The 'hero,' who is so inebriated that he wets himself and chases a female employee out of his home, is ultimately rewarded for his behavior. His girlfriend, now married and expecting a child, forgives him and they supposedly live happily ever after.