Former actor and activist Somy Ali has sparked a debate about creative freedom in Indian cinema. She argues that filmmakers often apply different ethical standards depending on who they portray.
In a pointed statement, Ali questioned why the industry protects some influential figures while openly exploring the struggles of others. According to her, the issue goes beyond celebrity gossip. Instead, it raises questions about the very meaning of artistic freedom.
Somy Ali Raises the Arth Question
Ali pointed to the 1982 film Arth as a key example. The film explored actress Parveen Babi’s documented mental health struggles.
However, Ali questioned the ethics of portraying Babi’s condition without meaningful consent. She believes the industry defended such storytelling as creative expression.
But that raises another question. If creative freedom applies in one case, why should it not apply equally to other real-life stories?
For Ali, the answer comes down to consistency. Either creative freedom applies across the board, or it becomes selective.
The Sanjay Dutt Biopic Comparison
Ali also brought up the Sanjay Dutt biopic. In this case, Dutt had control over his personal narrative and could decide what appeared on screen.
That distinction matters. Dutt had the ability to give or withhold consent. Babi, according to Ali’s argument, did not have the same agency.
Yet both stories became part of mainstream cinema. Therefore, Ali questions whether the industry follows different rules depending on how much power a person has to challenge the portrayal.
Somy Ali Questions Selective Outrage
Ali’s criticism goes beyond individual films. She also questioned why some legally documented cases face greater resistance when filmmakers attempt to examine them.
At the same time, she pointed to what she describes as “selective outrage.” According to Ali, the industry can become unusually quiet when a project risks examining powerful personalities too closely.
As a result, she believes young creators may receive the wrong message. They could learn that some truths are acceptable to explore, while others are better left untouched.
A Warning for Young Filmmakers
Ali directed a major part of her message toward film students and aspiring creators. She urged them to recognize these alleged double standards instead of simply accepting them.
Moreover, she wants the next generation to question the rules they inherit.
Her concern is straightforward. If young filmmakers begin believing that certain subjects are automatically off-limits, Indian cinema could become less daring.
Consequently, important stories may never reach audiences. Not because they lack value, but because they challenge someone powerful.
What Is the Real Issue?
For Ali, this debate is not about one film or one celebrity. It is about whether creative freedom remains a genuine principle.
She also raises an important question about consent and accountability. If these values matter when filmmakers portray ordinary people, should they not matter when stories involve powerful public figures too?
Likewise, if artistic expression deserves protection, should that protection not be consistent?
These questions sit at the heart of Ali’s argument.
Why Creative Freedom Matters
Cinema has long been a platform for difficult conversations. Filmmakers have explored crime, politics, mental health, relationships and social injustice.
However, that freedom can become complicated when real people are involved.
On one side, filmmakers want the freedom to tell stories. On the other, individuals may have legitimate concerns about privacy, consent and representation.
Therefore, the challenge is finding a fair balance. For Ali, that balance should not change simply because the person involved is wealthy, famous or influential.
Somy Ali Challenges Industry Silence
Ali also criticized what she sees as widespread silence within the film fraternity.
According to her, many industry members avoid controversial conversations when powerful interests are involved. She believes that silence can become another form of pressure.
At the same time, the entertainment industry often presents itself as a space for fearless expression.
So, Ali’s question is simple: Can cinema truly challenge society if the industry is unwilling to challenge itself?
What Is at Stake?
The debate, Ali suggests, could have consequences for future filmmakers.
When creators censor themselves to avoid upsetting powerful people, they may also limit the stories they tell. Over time, that can affect the entire creative culture.
More importantly, it can create the impression that some people are protected from scrutiny while others are not.
That is the message Ali wants the industry to confront.
Somy Ali Calls for Equal Standards
Ultimately, Somy Ali is calling for consistency.
If creative freedom matters, she believes it should apply to everyone. Similarly, if accountability matters, it should not depend on fame, wealth or influence.
Her challenge to Indian cinema is therefore direct. The industry must decide whether artistic freedom is a genuine right or a privilege available mainly to those with power.
Indian cinema has repeatedly claimed that stories can challenge society and expose uncomfortable truths. Now, Somy Ali is asking the industry to prove that it still believes in that principle—even when the truth is difficult to confront.
Where to Watch / Shop
Watch Bollywood on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate, Awesome TV earns from qualifying purchases.
