What’s Making Fringe Groups Protest Against ‘Padmavati’?

‘Padmavati’ has sparked a series of protests all across the country.

(Photo: Altered by The Quint)

People from all parts of India are protesting against the film 'Padmavati'. Many photos of such protests have come out in the recent past. A careful look at these pictures reveal many facts masked within the country's culture.

These protests are not just to denigrate the film. They have their own culture and a pattern unto themselves.

Protesting films is not new to the country, especially if the film is based on an episode from history or a character. However, in the last few years, the cameras of news channels and the desire to be viral on social media has increased the numbers of such protests manifold.

Now, pictures of demonstrations from villages in Himachal and towns of Madhya Pradesh also reach us. But, how does all this work?

Protests against ‘Padmavati’ in Gujarat.(Photo: ANI)

How to Protest 101

No matter what the film, the method of protesting is usually the same. You just need to have these 11 essential things, and a successful protest is ready to be staged!

1. Six colourful posters of the film
2. Additional posters of the actors and directors
3. A banner with the name and logo of the organisation
4. Ten to 20 zealous people
5. Mobile phone to shoot in HD
6. Cameraman, as required
7. Mannequin, as required
8. A matchbox
9. A bottle of cough-syrup for the throat after the loud sloganeering
10. Women of the house to protest against issues related to women
11. And of course, the white kurta stained with political ambition

Guarantee of Overnight Popularity

Have you heard the name of the International Kshatriya Veerangana Foundation or Sambhaji Brigade? No? Well, it’s not your fault. Actually, these organisations have come to light only in the last few days. They are opposing the release of 'Padmavati' in different cities.

Protests against ‘Padmavati’ in Mumbai.(Photo: ANI)

These protests also have a psychological aspect. Psychologist Aruna Broota says, "Such performances give people a 'kick', it gives them a sense of strength to express their feelings and emotions." She added that such protests have increased after the advent of social media.

What’s the Benefit of Such Forgettable Demonstrations?

There has been a flood of protests against 'Padmavati', which is to be released on 1 December. Once the movie releases, people wouldn’t remember these protests or these organisations. Then, why bother?

Swaraj India’s Yogendra Yadav says that this is a shortcut to climb the ladder of politics. He adds that on most occasions those who attend such demonstrations have a political ambition.

Protests against ‘Padmavati’ in Varanasi.(Photo Courtesy: Twitter)

Does Better Branding Bring in More Funds?

Most of these organisations which put up such protests are registered under the Societies Act, which can be done with a very easy process. Such organisations working in small towns continue to stage small activities. These activities require funding, and funding and donation are only achievable through proper branding.

One should definitely pay a visit to the offices of these organisations, from where the protests are controlled. There, you will find photographs of all such protests, newspaper clippings and laminated posters providing proof of all their ‘adventures’. These ‘trophies’ in turn become the foundations for the next protest.

While on one hand, these protests provide some relief from the boredom of everyday life, they are usually used as a way to scale up the political ladder. You’ll see many such protests right until the release of 'Padmavati'.

Just one request though, do not quiz these protesters on history, cause they definitely won’t have the answers.

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