# Should an Artist Be Political or Apolitical?
The debate about whether an artist should be politically engaged or remain apolitical has been ongoing for years. Art has always been a reflection of society, and thus, it becomes essential for an artist to address the prevailing political and social issues through their craft. The relevance of art diminishes if it lacks political commitment, as pointed out in an iconic scene from the movie *Party*, where Govind Nihalani’s character passionately argues that art must have a political connection to hold true significance.
## Understanding the Artist’s Responsibility
Artists and filmmakers are an integral part of society. Their work directly or indirectly impacts people’s perceptions and beliefs. Every piece of art reflects an ideology, even if it is not explicitly political. Films, being a significant storytelling medium, also play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and cultural views.
While some films focus purely on entertainment—providing comic relief or adrenaline-pumping action sequences—others aim to provoke thought and initiate conversations on societal issues. Well-known filmmakers like Rajkumar Hirani incorporate subtle yet strong messages in their films, addressing concerns like the education system, medical services, and religious ideologies.
### Can Films Avoid Political Commentary?
The reality is that complete political disconnect is impossible. Every aspect of life, from governance to social norms, directly affects individuals and, therefore, is reflected in various forms of storytelling. Filmmakers must decide when and how to incorporate political narratives in their work. Some films may address political themes explicitly, while others may avoid direct references but still contain underlying messages that provoke thought.
A film does not need to be overtly political in every instance. Some stories require deep political engagement, while others thrive on pure entertainment. A well-balanced perspective in cinema ensures that diverse genres and storytelling styles have their rightful place in the industry.
## Cinema’s Impact on Viewers
Cinema holds a tremendous influence over its audience, especially in a country where films are deeply embedded in cultural identity. Just as a mother nurtures a child, films shape perspectives and social values, making them a powerful medium for thought leadership. While watching a movie, audiences tend to immerse themselves in the story, often accepting it as a reality. Therefore, historical or politically relevant narratives must be portrayed responsibly.
Filmmakers carry the responsibility of presenting facts accurately since audiences often perceive cinematic portrayals as historical or social truths. Thus, an artist cannot entirely detach from political discourse. The balance between storytelling, responsibility, and creative liberty defines the essence of meaningful cinema.
### Conclusion
It is evident that cinema cannot be isolated from politics. Since everything in life is influenced by political decisions and societal structures, filmmakers should embrace the responsibility of delivering content that provokes thought while maintaining entertainment value. As a powerful medium, films should strive for a balance between engaging storytelling and addressing important issues with sensitivity and accuracy.
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