Bollywood star Akshay Kumar recently responded to critics of his social dramas, particularly addressing comments regarding his film Toilet: Ek Prem Katha. Addressing his detractors, Kumar emphasized that one must be a fool not to appreciate films like Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, Padman, and others, especially considering their impactful social messages. His statement came shortly after Jaya Bachchan, a veteran actress and parliamentarian, criticized his work, labeling it a “flop picture.”
During a press conference for his upcoming film Kesari: Chapter 2, Akshay Kumar was questioned about his thoughts when facing criticism from within the film industry. He defended his work vigorously, saying, “I don’t think anyone has criticised my films. Koi bewakoof hi hoga jo criticise karega jaisi filmein banayi hai maine… I made Padman, I made Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, Airlift, Kesari, now Kesari 2… There are many such films that I have made.” According to Kumar, these films are made with sincerity and deliver meaningful lessons to audiences.
Background and Response
A reporter reminded Akshay that Jaya Bachchan had recently expressed disapproval of Toilet: Ek Prem Katha due to its title. Kumar replied with discretion, stating, “Ab agar unhone kaha hai toh phir sahi hoga, mujhe nahi pata. Agar Toilet: Ek Prem Katha ek aisi film banake maine koi galat kaam kiya hai toh phir…agar woh keh rahi hain toh sahi hoga.” His response conveyed a mix of acknowledgement and sarcasm. Jaya Bachchan’s initial remarks, made during a conclave, implied surprise and disapproval of the film’s title. She questioned the audience on who would watch a film named Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, expressing her own reluctance to view it.
Despite her remarks, Akshay Kumar maintained his stance, emphasizing that his choice of title was a deliberate element of the film’s message rather than a conventional naming choice. The film, which addresses the important issue of sanitation in rural India, was not merely a title but a representation of its thematic essence.
Quotes and Reactions
Adding to the discourse, Prerna Arora, co-producer of Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, countered Jaya Bachchan’s comments, noting the film’s success at the box office. Arora stated, “It is very hurtful to hear her say that our film Toilet: Ek Prem Katha was a flop. Ma’am should check the box office figures. Our film earned a very handsome profit. It was one of the five biggest hits of 2017.”
With a substantial box office success and critical acclaim, Akshay Kumar’s film not only resonated with viewers but also fostered awareness on significant societal issues. As the conversation over the film’s title continues, the broader impact of Toilet: Ek Prem Katha remains a pivotal achievement in Bollywood’s narrative storytelling.
