Archive · 31 Jan 2026
Prakash Raj urges Karnataka to oppose Palestinian films ban
Prakash Raj, a famous actor, spoke at the Bengaluru International Film Festival.
He said that the central government is not allowing movies from Palestine to be shown.
He read a poem from Palestine and said movies should tell human stories, not be controlled by politics.
He asked the Karnataka government to stand up against this ban.
The Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, agreed and said movies should help people understand different cultures and promote equality.
The festival is showing many movies, including ones made by women and award-winning films from around the world.
Prakash Raj alleged that the central government prevented the screening of Palestinian films at the 17th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFes).
He read a Palestinian poem and emphasized that cinema should focus on human stories, not political agendas.
Raj appealed to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the state government to protest against the ban and allow the screening of Palestinian films.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah called upon filmmakers to ensure that cinema goes beyond mere entertainment and becomes a medium to correct social inequalities.
The festival is showcasing around 225 films from 65 countries, with a theme of 'Women’s Sensibility, the Voice of Equality.'
- Who
- Prakash Raj, actor and brand ambassador for BIFFes; Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
- What
- Urged Karnataka government to protest against the ban on Palestinian films and emphasized the role of cinema in promoting social equality
- When
- January 29 - February 6, 2024
- Where
- Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
- Why
- To promote human stories, oppose political interference in cinema, and encourage socially relevant cinema
Prakash Raj and Supporters
Central Government
Screening of Palestinian Films
Prakash Raj and Supporters
Prakash Raj and supporters believe that the screening of Palestinian films should be allowed, emphasizing the importance of human stories in cinema and opposing political interference.
Central Government
The central government has imposed restrictions on the screening of films from certain countries, including Palestine, without providing a clear reason.
- Event
- Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFes)
- Year
- 17th edition
- Date
- January 29 - February 6, 2024
- Films Showcased
- Around 225 films from 65 countries
- Prakash Raj's Role
- Brand ambassador for the festival
- Theme
- 'Women’s Sensibility, the Voice of Equality'
- Venues
- Cinepolis at Lulu Mall, Suchitra Film Society, Karnataka Film Artists’ Association premises
Sources
Bengaluru International Film Festival: Prakash Raj urges Karnataka govt to take stand against Palestinian films ban
Prakash Raj alleges Palestinian films were blocked at BIFFes, urges Karnataka government to take a stand
Films must reflect social realities: CM
CM Siddaramaiah flags off 17th Bengaluru International Film Festival at Vidhana Soudha, actor Prakash Raj bats for cause of Palestinian films
BJP lashes out at Prakash Raj for his demand for screening Palestinian movies at BIFF
BJP Slams Prakash Raj Over Plea to Include Palestinian Films at BIFF
