Haryana and Karnataka Women's Commissions Write to CBFC Over 'Sarke Chunar' Song
The song 'Sarke Chunar' from the upcoming Kannada film 'KD: The Devil' has sparked significant controversy due to its explicit lyrics and visuals. An advocate initially filed a complaint against the track and all individuals involved in its production. Subsequently, the National Human Rights Commission issued a notice regarding the depiction of obscenity in the song. Now, the Haryana State Commission for Women has formally written to the Central Board of Film Certification, expressing serious concerns about the content.
Haryana Commission's Official Communication
According to an ANI report, the Haryana State Commission for Women conveyed "grave concern" in an official letter about what it described as an increasing trend of obscenity and vulgarity in songs approved for public release. The commission stated that the visuals and lyrics of 'Sarke Chunar' appear to violate the standards and guidelines established under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
The letter specifically mentioned, "It has come to our attention that a recently released song, 'Sarke Chunar teri Sarke,' featuring Nora Fatehi, the known dancer/actress, contains content that appears to contradict the standards and guidelines prescribed under The Cinematograph Act, 1952." It further emphasized, "It is further observed that such content has the potential to exert a negative and lasting influence on children and youth, who are particularly impressionable and susceptible to the impact of popular media, thereby posing a matter of serious societal concern. The growing trend of suggestive visuals and lyrics in certain songs raises serious questions about compliance with the spirit of the Censor Board."
In its communication, the commission highlighted that the rising use of suggestive imagery and lyrics in songs raises issues regarding adherence to certification requirements. It underscored the media's role in shaping societal values and urged regulatory agencies to exercise greater caution and accountability when approving content for public dissemination. The commission has requested the CBFC to provide a detailed response and consider implementing stricter scrutiny for similar content in the future.
Karnataka Commission's Separate Action
On a related note, the Karnataka State Commission for Women has also taken cognizance of complaints regarding the lyrics of 'Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke,' which is featured in the forthcoming film 'KD: The Devil.' In a distinct letter to the regional director of the CBFC, the commission raised alarms that the lyrics could be derogatory and portray women in a disrespectful manner.
The Karnataka panel noted that the matter came to its attention following complaints from members of the public about lyrics used in films currently in production or promotion. The commission asserted that content perceived to denigrate the dignity of women might contravene film certification guidelines.
The letter further pointed out that the public dissemination of provocative lyrics could adversely affect the safety and social well-being of women. It stressed that scenes or lyrics depicting women in an obscene or degrading manner fall within the purview of scrutiny under certification norms. The commission urged the CBFC to conduct a comprehensive review of the song and ensure that any objectionable lyrics or scenes are removed or modified before certification is granted.
Additionally, the Karnataka panel has written to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce, advocating for enhanced oversight within the film industry concerning the use of what it termed as obscene literature or dialogues in films. The letter highlighted escalating public objections to certain song lyrics in Kannada cinema, including those associated with 'KD: The Devil,' and called on filmmakers to exercise greater social responsibility.
Details About the Song and Film
The controversial song features Nora Fatehi and Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt. Directed by Prem, the film stars Dhruva Sarja in the lead role, alongside Sanjay Dutt, Shilpa Shetty, V. Ravichandran, Ramesh Aravind, Reeshma Nanaiah, Jisshu Sengupta, and Nora Fatehi. It is scheduled for theatrical release on April 30, 2026.
