Actress Sonam Kapoor recently sparked outrage with her “All Eyes On Rafah” social media post. Her Instagram Story was proof to the netizens of her ‘paid influencer’ status! Consequently, the backlash was swift and fierce. Netizens question how the actress, who won hearts and accolades for portraying the heroic Neerja Bhanot, could make such a misinformed statement. Kapoor’s insensitive remark starkly contrasts with the actions of actor Randeep Hooda, who embodies the difference between merely playing a role and truly living and breathing one’s art. Let’s explore!
Sonam Kapoor: From ‘Neerja’ to ‘Rafah’
Sonam Kapoor’s portrayal of Neerja Bhanot was termed the epitome of her ability as an artist. She played the part of the courageous flight attendant who sacrificed her life to protect passengers during the 1986 hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 by Palestinian terrorists. The ‘beauty with bravado’ was a career-defining role for Sonam Kapoor. Neerja Bhanot’s bravery continues to inspire many young women. Thus, it makes Sonam Kapoor’s recent ‘Rafah’ misstep even more baffling.
Neerja Bhanot’s life was tragically cut short at 22 by Palestinian Terrorists from the Abu Nidal Organization, which organization backed by Libya.
In an attempt to show solidarity with Palestine, Bollywood allegedly sold its Instagram stories to ‘All Eyes On Rafah’! The story was shared over 44 million times on Instagram alone!!! And as a Bollywood has-been star, Sonam Kapoor jumped on the ‘Rafah’ Bandwagon! While none of the actors were saved from criticism, the response to Sonam Kapoor’s post was especially fierce. It showed the public how disconnected the actress was from the character she allegedly believed wholeheartedly in. Thereby, prompting many to question Sonam Kapoor’s depth of understanding and commitment to roles that portray a role model.
Neerja Bhanot was a brave Hindu woman. She was an attendant of a flight that was hijacked by Palestinian Islamist tεrrorists. By dint of her intelligence and courage, she saved lives of many passengers. At last, chanting 'Allahu Akbar', the Palestinian tεrrorists killed her on… pic.twitter.com/egro6UM5r6
— True Indology (@TrueIndology) May 29, 2024
Randeep Hooda: An Artist’s Journey Beyond the Screen
Randeep Hooda visits the Cellular Jail
where Vinayak Savarkar ji was sentenced to 50 years of life imprisonment.Britishers where scared of this revolutionary leader pic.twitter.com/AjxDk4xSJL
— Sheetal Chopra 🇮🇳 (@SheetalPronamo) May 28, 2024
In stark contrast, Randeep Hooda’s dedication to his craft goes beyond the confines of the screen. After playing the role of Veer Savarkar, Hooda and his wife took a trip to the Cellular Jail in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Here they paid homage to all those freedom fighters who endured the harsh sentences of Kala Pani under British Raaj!
They paid special homage to the cell of Veer Savarkar.
The video and images from the cell show the harsh punishments and mind-breaking atrocities the freedom fighter suffered for his nation!
The visit was showcased as a pilgrimage in which Hooda paid homage to the historical figure he portrayed. Thereby, showcasing his respect and dedication to understanding the depths of his character.
Randeep Hooda’s actions illustrate the difference between an actor and an artist. While an actor may move on after the cameras stop rolling, an artist appreciates the essence of the roles they play; specially if they are representing real-life public heroes. Therefore, in case of real heros, the reel heros are expected to be motivated to honor the lives and stories they depict. Randeep Hooda’s journey reflects a commitment to his craft that resonates with authenticity and reverence.
The Artist vs. The Actor
Sonam Kapoor, who posted the viral ‘All Eyes On Rafah’ template on social media, seems to have forgotten her portrayal of the brave Neerja Bhanot who was killed by Palestinian terrorists pic.twitter.com/pqQYEaNci8
— The Pamphlet (@Pamphlet_in) May 30, 2024
The contrasting behaviors of Sonam Kapoor and Randeep Hooda highlight a fundamental difference in their approaches to their profession. Sonam Kapoor’s social media ‘Rafah’ blunder suggests an inability to engage deeply with the heroes she tries to portray. Meanwhile, Randeep Hooda’s pilgrimage to Kala Pani underscores his profound connection to his work. This distinction raises critical questions about responsibility and authenticity in the realm of acting.
In a nation where Bollywood stars hold significant sway and influence, they are expected to use their actions and words with caution. Sonam Kapoor’s politically naive, ‘paid-for’ post impacts not just her image but undermines her portrayal of a national hero. It makes the common man wonder if Sonam was the right actress to embody the values of Neerja Bhanot. Conversely, Randeep Hooda’s dedication exemplifies how an artist can immerse themselves in their roles.
It seems this is the major difference between an actor and an artist!
Hopefully, actors/actresses who aim to honor the legacy of public figures will use prudence in their actions. Else they dishonor the man/woman they tried to represent to inspire millions in the audiences beyond the silver screen! The ‘All Eyes on Rafah’ post has exposed many celebrities and public figures. Let’s hope that Bharat’s audience is keeping count of those who have failed to live up their expectations much like Sonam Kapoor!