Mental Hai Kya Makers Respond to Psychiatric Society’s Objections

The IPS claims that marketing of the film depicts mental illness in poor light.

Rajkummar Rao and Kangana Ranaut in Mental Hai Kya.

(Photo courtesy: Instagram)

The Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) has written a letter to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), claiming that the posters of the upcoming Kangana Ranaut and Rajkummar Rao-starrer Mental Hai Kya depict mental illness in poor light.

In a letter addressed to CBFC Chief Prasoon Joshi, the IPS said it takes objection to a "number of issues", as the movie, backed by Ekta Kapoor's Balaji Motion Pictures, seems to violate many section of Mental Health Care Act, 2017.

Here’s what the letter said.

“We take serious objections to the title of the movie which is discriminative, stigmatising, degrading and inhuman in projecting mental disorders and persons who suffer from mental disorders. We strongly demand the title to be removed with immediate effect preventing further damage to the modesty of mental health service users.”

The IPS said every citizen of the country is governed by the Mental Health Care act 2017 and it is a legal obligation to be aware about the mental health and reduce stigmas associated with it.

It also asked material from the film which violates the act to be censored.

“The Central Board of Film Certification being a quasi-judiciary body makes it more legally bounded to set an example to the citizens and be guardian of rich Indian heritage and culture. We also demand to censor any sequence that is violating the rights of persons with mental disorder. We presume this letter as a legal warning to any such events, currently or in future, subjective that comes under the purview of CBFC.”

The makers of the film, however said in a statement that they believe that Mental Hai Kya will encourage people to embrace their individuality and distinctiveness. They have also maintained that the movie is not meant to offend or discriminate anyone.

“Produced by Ekta Kapoor's 'Balaji Motion Pictures', Mental Hai Kya starring Kangana Ranaut and Rajkummar Rao marks the coming together of some of the most talented and responsible media personalities, who in no way intend to hurt anyone's sentiments”, they said.

The makers would like to maintain that Mental Hai Kya is a fictional thriller genre feature film meant to entertain audiences and it does not offend, discriminate or disregard any person. In fact the film is a mainstream entertainer which makes a larger point, the statement read.

This is Rajkummar Rao and Kangana Ranaut’s second collaboration after Queen. Mental Hai Kya has been written by Kanika Dhillon and helmed by National award-winning director Prakash Kovelamudi who has directed south Indian films like Anaganaga O Dheerudu and Size Zero.

(Inputs: PTI)