Nadav Lapid, IFFI's jury head, says 'The Kashmir Files appears vulgar & propaganda film'

In a turn of unexpected events, Nadav Lapid, IFFI's jury head, during the film festival called Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri's The Kashmir Files 'vulgar' and 'inappropriate'. Terming it a propaganda film, he said that the spirit of the festival can surely accept a critical discussion as well, which is essential for art and life. The video from the closing ceremony of the festival wherein Lapid is seen making controversial remarks about the film went viral.

Lapid said that the IFFI was disturbed about this film. Sharing the experience of the jury, he said that 14 out of them (international films) had cinematic quality. "All of us were disturbed and shocked by the 15th film 'The Kashmir Files'. That felt to us like a propaganda, vulgar movie, inappropriate for an



artistic competitive section of such a prestigious film festival," Lapid added.

"I feel totally comfortable to openly share these feelings here with you on this stage. Since, the spirit of the festival can surely also accept a critical discussion, which is essential for art and life," he said.

Actor Anupam Kher, who played a key role in 'The Kashmir Files' took a jibe at IFFI Jury Head Nadav Lapid for calling the film "propaganda, vulgar" at the festival's closing ceremony on Monday. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit also slammed Lapid.

Referring to Lapid's remarks, Anupam Kher tweeted, "No matter how high the height of the lie is.. It is always small in comparison to the truth." He attached pictures from the movie with his tweet.