Team of movie ‘Thappad’ Calls for Disclaimer in Films Showing Domestic Violence

The team of Thappad, a movie based on the subject of domestic violence which includes lead actor Taapsee Pannu and director Anubhav Sinha, has extended its support to a petition asking for disclaimers to be added in films that showcase domestic violence.

The petition started by Mahika Banerji for women’s rights organization Breakthrough on Change.org has so far gathered more than 1.27 lakh signatures.

Taapsee has shot a concept video to promote the campaign to sign the petition

“Why don’t we have a disclaimer for ‘Thappad’ on-screen when we have one for alcohol consumption, smoking and animal cruelty?” the actor asks in the clip.

The petition seeks support from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in identifying scenes of violence and calling them out with warnings and disclaimers.

“I’m happy that our petition on warnings and disclaimers for on-screen gender-based violence has received an overwhelmingly positive response.

“We strongly believe that our efforts at bringing about lasting behavioral change through means of popular culture and community-based actions will play a crucial role in ending gender-based violence.

I am happy to film ‘Thappad’ has taken the lead. We hope many more films to follow this practice,” Sohini Bhattacharya, President & CEO, Breakthrough, said in a statement.

Film promotion with a social cause?

While the petition takes up the subject of domestic violence and spread awareness, critics say that this is also a part of promotional strategy for Thappad. The video featuring Tapsi is promoted by T-Series and is not an individual appeal but a well shot and directed clip.

Tapsi the 32-year-old actress, also took to social media to offer her support to the petition asking the CBFC to make it mandatory for movies depicting violence against women to carry disclaimers.

“When most of our films are filled with misogynistic portrayals of women, films like Thappad trigger our collective conscience.

“Taapsee’s support for Mahika’s Change.org petition is a powerful statement for the Indian film industry to take responsibility for the right messaging on crucial issues that affect millions of women in our country every day,” Nida Hasan, country director, Change.org India, said.

The movie Thappad is set to release on February 28th, 2020.