Sonakshi Sinha is brave to speak up for Sonam Wangchuk and CJP. She shouldn’t have to be
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Aakash Joshi
As activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike hits its 20th day, Bollywood’s reaction remains polarized. While some stars like Swara Bhasker express support, others like Vivek Oberoi avoid political discourse, citing concerns over public backlash.
The Intersection of Bollywood and Activism: Analyzing the Sonam Wangchuk Protest
As education reformer Sonam Wangchuk marks the 20th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, the response from India’s entertainment industry has become a focal point of public discourse. Wangchuk’s protest, which centers on demands for accountability regarding NEET examination irregularities and broader educational reforms, has highlighted a growing divide in how celebrities engage with socio-political movements.
The Reticence of Mainstream Bollywood
Actor Vivek Oberoi recently exemplified the cautious approach currently adopted by many in the film industry. When questioned about the ongoing protest, Oberoi firmly declined to comment, stating, “Yaar main abhineta hun, neta nahi hun” (I am an actor, not a politician). This sentiment reflects a broader trend of risk-aversion, where celebrities avoid potentially polarizing political issues to protect their professional standing and public image.
Fear of Backlash and the 'Swara Bhasker' Factor
Conversely, actor Swara Bhasker has emerged as a vocal proponent of Wangchuk’s cause, even visiting the protest site. In her commentary on why many peers remain silent, she suggested that the industry is wary of the consequences, pointing to the intense scrutiny and professional challenges she has faced for her own political activism. This indicates a perceived environment where speaking out against the establishment—or even supporting a high-profile protest—carries significant personal and career risks.
Historical Context: A Shift in Celebrity Engagement
To understand the current silence, one must look at the historical precedent of celebrity activism in India. A decade and a half ago, during the Anna Hazare-led anti-corruption movement, industry stalwarts like Amitabh Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra were actively engaged, utilizing their platforms to support peaceful protest. The contrast between that era and the present day suggests a profound shift in the political landscape of the entertainment industry.
The Normalization of Political Distance
Today, the industry is characterized by a reluctance to wade into issues that might upset the ruling establishment. Even when celebrities like Sonakshi Sinha choose to speak up, such actions are increasingly viewed as exceptions rather than the norm. The prevailing atmosphere suggests that neutrality has become a default strategy for survival in a climate where public opinion is sharply divided.
Future Trends and Democratic Discourse
Despite the silence from some corners, the fact that the debate is occurring at all is, as Vivek Oberoi noted, a sign of a healthy democracy. As public figures continue to navigate the balance between personal conviction and professional caution, the discourse surrounding protests like Wangchuk’s will likely continue to serve as a barometer for the relationship between Indian cultural icons and the political movements they choose—or refuse—to support.
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