Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has triggered a fresh national debate by criticising Indian films for portraying criminals and dacoits as heroes. Speaking at a cultural event in Varanasi, he said such portrayals have “spoiled generations” by influencing young minds to admire negative characters instead of standing against injustice.
“Cinema Shapes Society,” Says CM
Addressing a theatrical presentation based on Emperor Vikramaditya, Adityanath stressed that cinema has a powerful influence on society. He warned that glorifying villains weakens moral values.
“There was a time when villains were shown as heroes. The result was that generations got spoiled and people lost their voice against injustice,” he said.
Appeal to Filmmakers for Responsible Content
The Chief Minister urged filmmakers to create inspiring and socially responsible content. “If you present a dacoit as a hero, the youth will start seeing him as a role model. Never portray a dacoit as a hero,” he said, calling for a shift towards positive storytelling.
Debate Over ‘Anti-Hero’ Trend in Cinema
His remarks have reignited the long-standing debate around anti-heroes in cinema. Films like Bandit Queen, Paan Singh Tomar and Sonchiriya have depicted dacoits in a sympathetic light. While critics argue that such portrayals glorify crime, filmmakers maintain that they reflect complex human stories rather than promote wrongdoing.
Recent web series and films featuring gangsters and morally grey characters have also drawn attention, with audiences divided over whether such storytelling inspires or misleads viewers.
Filmmakers and Public React
While no major filmmaker has officially responded yet, industry voices have previously argued that storytelling should not be restricted and that portraying reality is different from glorifying crime. On social media, reactions are mixed — some users support the Chief Minister’s stand, while others defend creative freedom in cinema.
Experts Weigh In on Cinema’s Influence
Media experts say cinema plays a significant role in shaping perceptions, especially among youth, but caution that audiences today are more aware and capable of distinguishing fiction from reality. They argue that the responsibility lies both with creators and viewers.
Global Concern Over Glorifying Villains
The debate is not limited to India. Internationally, shows like Breaking Bad have sparked similar discussions. Its creator Vince Gilligan had earlier said he would prefer creating more inspiring characters in today’s world.
Political Leaders Attend Event
The event in Varanasi was also attended by Mohan Yadav, adding political significance to the cultural programme.
With strong opinions emerging from both sides, the debate over cinema’s responsibility versus creative freedom is once again in the spotlight, raising a key question — should films entertain, reflect reality, or guide society?
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