By News Desk 
Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, known for tackling hard-hitting social and political themes in cinema, has once again stirred discussion—not through a new film, but through his candid remarks on religious and political identities. Agnihotri, who directed controversial yet critically noted films like The Kashmir Files and The Kerala Story, is widely recognized for his bold and often polarizing viewpoints. His films frequently spark national conversations, and he remains an outspoken voice on social media.
In a recent podcast with Shubhankar Mishra, Agnihotri addressed multiple topics, including his film career, ongoing controversies, and persistent claims that he harbors anti-Muslim sentiment. Speaking bluntly, he denied such allegations and clarified that his criticism is directed not at Muslims, but at Islamic political ideology.
“I’m Not Anti-Muslim—My Films Involve Muslims”
Agnihotri defended himself by pointing out the diverse makeup of his film crews and collaborators:
“The producer of my very first film was a Muslim. More than half the people working on The Bengal Files are Muslim. Even the dialogues in The Kashmir Files were written by Kashmiri Muslim boys, some of whom have lived through militancy,” he said.
He emphasized that he has close Muslim friends and grew up in Bhopal, a city known for its cultural diversity.
“I have friends and even relatives who are Muslim. In our family, there have been interfaith marriages. So what does being Muslim have to do with anything? This isn’t about people—it’s about politics,” he clarified.
Agnihotri: “I Oppose Islamic Politics, Not People”
Reiterating his stance, Agnihotri said:
“Yes, I oppose Islamic politics, but that doesn’t mean I’m anti-Muslim. I also criticize things within Hinduism that I find wrong, and I’ve faced backlash for that too. I’ve been abused, misunderstood, and doubted by people across the board.”
He explained that ordinary Muslims suffer just like anyone else:
“A Muslim schoolteacher has nothing to do with Islamic politics. He’s as helpless as a Hindu man when facing the police or the system. Let’s not confuse everyday people with political ideologies.”
“We’ve Forgotten What It Means to Be Indian”
Agnihotri recalled a tweet that caused unexpected backlash:
“I once tweeted: ‘I’m not Right Wing or Left Wing—I’m India Wing.’ And that night, around 5,000–10,000 right-wing users unfollowed me. I was shocked. Even being Indian now seems controversial.”
He questioned the growing polarization in identity:
“Are we Hindus and Muslims first, or Indians? Have we forgotten what it means to be just Indian? Has calling oneself Indian become unacceptable now?”
Conclusion
Vivek Agnihotri’s comments reflect his larger concern about ideological extremism and identity politics in India. Whether one agrees or disagrees with his views, his willingness to speak openly continues to provoke debate in a society grappling with complex cultural dynamics.