"In Nazi Germany Also...": Naseeruddin Shah Calls Out "Propaganda" Films

Speaking to NDTV, Actor Naseeruddin Shah said his statement on a "section of Indian Muslims" celebrating the Taliban's return was misunderstood.

Actor Naseeruddin Shah said today that while he felt that the film industry had been insulated from religious discrimination and Islamophobia, filmmakers were being encouraged by the government to make "pro-establishment" films. Speaking to NDTV, the veteran actor also said his statement on a "section of Indian Muslims" celebrating the Taliban's return was misunderstood. In comments that went viral earlier this month, he had said: "Even as the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan is a cause for concern for the whole world, celebrations of the barbarians by some sections of Indian Muslims is no less dangerous." He had also differentiated between what he called "Hindustani Islam" and what is actually practised in other parts of the world. The 71-year-old actor conceded today that "celebration" may not have been the right word to use. "I was referring to those who openly made a statement in favour of the Taliban. The past history of Taliban should make us pretty anxious," said Naseeruddin Shah.