Rishi Kapoor’s Rafoo Chakkar has men in drag getting sexually harassed, as the film presents its villain as the comedian.

Rafoo Chakkar, a 1975 comedy directed by Narender Bedi, is known for its slapstick humor and playful storyline involving mistaken identities and cross-dressing. The film’s plot revolves around two friends, Rishi Kapoor and Paintal, who dress up as women to escape from the police after witnessing a murder. The two men find themselves in a series of comedic situations, often pursued by the villainous characters portrayed by notable actors of the time.
However, as societal awareness and sensitivity toward gender-related issues have evolved over the years, the film’s portrayal of men in drag has come under scrutiny. Critics argue that the film’s comedic treatment of sexual harassment perpetuates harmful stereotypes and belittles the experiences of those who have faced harassment in real life.What has drawn the most criticism is the way the film presents its villain, portrayed as a comedian, targeting the men in drag with unwanted advances and lecherous behavior. This portrayal raises concerns about normalizing harassment and painting it as a source of humor. The film’s treatment of these instances as mere comedic devices has led to accusations of insensitivity and perpetuation of harmful attitudes.Social media platforms have been flooded with discussions, both condemning and defending the film’s approach. While some argue that the film should be understood within the context of its time and the prevalent comedic norms, others stress the importance of reevaluating art in light of evolving social perspectives.
Sourceu00a0 TOIExperts in the film industry and gender studies have weighed in on the controversy. Dr. Maya Verma, a prominent gender studies scholar, stated, The film undoubtedly reflects the attitudes and comedic norms of its era. However, that doesn’t absolve it from critique in today’s context. We must acknowledge the harm that such portrayals can cause and engage in open conversations about the implications of such content.
Film historian Rajiv Mehta added, Viewing vintage films through a modern lens is a complex exercise. ‘Rafoo Chakkar’ was a product of its time and should be understood as such. It’s an opportunity for us to reflect on how far we’ve come in terms of gender representation and the work that remains to be done.As discussions continue to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Rafoo Chakkar will undergo any changes, such as disclaimers or contextual introductions when presented to contemporary audiences. This controversy highlights the ongoing need to balance artistic appreciation with a responsible understanding of evolving societal values.Share your views in the comments