The producer says Hindu religious symbols and Indian mythology continue to face resistance in entertainment circles, recalling how she was judged for wearing a tika and dhaaga.
New Delhi: Film and television producer Ektaa Kapoor has alleged that prejudice against Hindu religious identity and Indian mythology persists in Bollywood, questioning why Hindu traditions sometimes attract discomfort while Western fantasy and animation are more readily accepted.
Speaking on Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast, Kapoor described what she called “Hinduphobia” in the entertainment industry. Her remarks come amid attention surrounding The Vvaan Force of the Forrest, a folklore inspired film featuring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia.
Kapoor argued that the willingness to explore different cultural traditions should extend equally to Indian stories. She said the film’s commercial numbers were important, but its engagement with folklore mattered even more. She also expressed hope that audiences would increasingly accept such narratives.
Recalling her younger days, the producer spoke about being mocked for openly displaying her religious beliefs. Wearing a tika and dhaaga, she said, had invited uncomfortable reactions, with people questioning her appearance and even describing her as a “freak” or a “tantrik”.
Kapoor also recounted an incident in which she went to a club after visiting a mandir. People were surprised to learn that she had visited a temple, prompting her to question why the combination was considered unusual.
Her account raises a broader question about whether religious expression is unfairly judged in certain social and professional circles, and why traditional practices are sometimes perceived as incompatible with contemporary lifestyles. However, her comments reflect her personal experiences and assessment of the industry, rather than independently establishing that Bollywood as a whole discriminates against Hindus.
The discussion also places the spotlight on the growing presence of Indian folklore and religious traditions in mainstream Hindi cinema. The Vvaan Force of the Forrest, directed by Deepak Kumar Mishra, blends fantasy, supernatural elements and indigenous folklore. Its narrative draws inspiration from traditions associated with the Maa Van Devi Temple near Bihta in Bihar’s Patna district.
The film also features Anup Soni, Sunil Grover, Shweta Tiwari and Maniesh Paul in supporting roles. It was released in theatres on September 25, 2026, and has received mixed initial reviews.
Kapoor’s remarks have brought renewed attention to the place of faith, cultural identity and indigenous storytelling in commercial cinema. Whether her criticism prompts a wider industry conversation remains to be seen, but her central argument is clear Indian folklore and religious traditions should be open to the same creative exploration and acceptance as stories from other cultures.
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