Maatr: Bollywood most secular industry, says Raveena Tandon

Raveena was asked about singer Sonu Nigam’s comments demanding a ban on loudspeakers during azaan.

Raveena Tandon says that when it comes to religion, the Hindi film industry is the most secular one as compared to others.

Raveena Tandon plays a rape victim in Maatr. (AFP)

Raveena, who was in the capital on Thursday to promote her new film Maatr, was asked about singer Sonu Nigam’s comments demanding a ban on loudspeakers during azaan. After his comments, Sonu shaved his head and apologised earlier this week.

“If we look at the current scenario of our country -- whether you look at people of any religion -- fanaticism is wrong. We have always lived as a secular and strong country and we should be allowed to do so,” said Raveena.

“If Diwali firecrackers are being controlled, I promote that. But it doesn’t mean I am becoming communal. It depends on each person’s individual thinking what they think and what they find. In a way, I do believe that we need to go towards a modern, more secular and liberal India. Fanaticism is wrong,” she added.

Directed by Ashtar Sayed, the story of Maatr deals with rape and violence against women in Indian society.