PM Modi Watches ‘The Sabarmati Report’—His First Film Screening as Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with several Cabinet members and NDA MPs, attended a special screening of The Sabarmati Report on Monday.

The event was held at the Balyogi Auditorium in the Parliament library building and marked a significant occasion for the prime minister, who revealed this was the first film he had watched since assuming office.

The screening also included Union ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and Nitin Gadkari, as well as Jitan Ram Manjhi, a BJP ally.

Veteran actor Jeetendra and Raashii Khanna, who plays a pivotal role in the movie, were present, with Jeetendra mentioning that his participation was due to his daughter, Ektaa Kapoor, one of the film’s producers.

Revisiting the 2002 Godhra Tragedy

Directed by Dheeraj Sarna, The Sabarmati Report explores the events surrounding the February 27, 2002, fire on the Sabarmati Express at Godhra, which resulted in the deaths of 59 devotees returning from Ayodhya. This tragedy was followed by communal riots that significantly impacted Gujarat’s political landscape.

As the then chief minister of Gujarat, PM Modi was at the center of this tumultuous period. At the time, state police attributed the fire to a Muslim mob, and many of those accused were later convicted in court.

However, the incident sparked a major political controversy. An inquiry commission set up by then Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, an ally of Congress, claimed the fire was accidental.

The Gujarat High Court subsequently quashed the commission’s findings, calling it unconstitutional.

Praise from the Prime Minister

After the screening, PM Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts and commend the film’s creators. He wrote, “Joined fellow NDA MPs at a screening of ‘The Sabarmati Report.’ I commend the makers of the film for their effort,” alongside pictures from the event.

Lead actor Vikrant Massey, who portrayed the film’s protagonist, described the experience of watching the movie with PM Modi as unparalleled and emotionally significant.

He expressed his gratitude and encouraged audiences to watch the film in theaters, calling this moment the highlight of his career.

Widespread Promotion and Tax-Free Declaration

The BJP has actively promoted The Sabarmati Report, with several state governments declaring it tax-free. These states include Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Odisha.

Released on November 15, the film has grossed ₹35.56 crore at the box office. It is produced under the banners of Balaji Motion Pictures, Vikir Films, and Zee Studios by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Amul V Mohan, and Anshul Mohan.

Personal Highlights and Career Changes

Jeetendra shared his unique experience of watching a movie with the prime minister for the first time, thanks to his daughter’s involvement as a producer. Similarly, Raashii Khanna expressed her delight at the opportunity to share the screening with PM Modi.

Coincidentally, the screening occurred on the same day that lead actor Vikrant Massey announced his retirement from films.

He shared a heartfelt note on Instagram, stating, “The last few years and beyond have been phenomenal. I thank each and every one of you for your indelible support. But as I move forward, I realise it’s time to recalibrate and go back home. As a Husband, Father & a Son. And also as an Actor.”

A Film Rooted in Historical and Political Context

The Sabarmati Report not only delves into a pivotal chapter of Gujarat’s history but also highlights the complexities of the narratives surrounding the 2002 Godhra incident.

With its endorsement by political leaders and widespread public interest, the film has cemented its place as a conversation starter on historical and contemporary issues in India.

The screening underscores the intersection of cinema, politics, and history, drawing attention to the continued resonance of the events depicted in the film.

As The Sabarmati Report continues its theatrical run, it invites audiences to reflect on one of the most challenging periods in India’s recent history.