In an unprecedented event, the Chief Justice of India’s courtroom transformed into a gathering place for Bollywood luminaries and legal minds, highlighting the significant role cinema plays in societal narratives. The court warmly welcomed filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, along with Manoj Kumar Sharma and Shraddha Joshi, the real-life inspirations behind the movie ’12th Fail’, directed by Chopra.
The event also saw appearances from Bollywood celebrities including Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao, and Randeep Hooda, emphasizing the film’s impact and its contribution to discussing real-life struggles through cinematic storytelling. ’12th Fail’ narrates the compelling journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, an individual who, despite failing his 12th-grade exams, rises through sheer determination and hard work to become an IPS officer. His story, alongside that of Shraddha Joshi, also an IPS officer, encapsulates the themes of resilience and perseverance.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s interaction with the celebrities, especially Aamir Khan, added a light-hearted touch to the occasion. His humorous remark, “I don’t want a stampede in the court, but we warmly welcome Mr. Aamir Khan,” set a welcoming tone for the screening, reflecting the judiciary’s openness to integrating educational and motivational content into its environment.
This convergence of Bollywood and the judiciary is not a standalone incident. Previously, on August 9, a special screening of ‘Laapata Ladies’ was organized in the court, aimed at promoting gender sensitization among the Supreme Court staff. This initiative, suggested by the CJI’s wife Kalpana Das, showcases an ongoing effort to use cinema as a tool for social awareness and education within the judiciary.
The presence of ’12th Fail’s’ real-life heroes and the depiction of their stories on screen not only entertain but serve as a beacon of hope and motivation for countless civil service aspirants across the country. By highlighting these narratives, Vidhu Vinod Chopra underscores his commitment to films that not only entertain but also inspire societal change.
The event underscored the potential of cinema to bridge gaps between various sectors of society, including the judiciary and entertainment, thus fostering a broader understanding of critical social issues. As the narrative of ’12th Fail’ unfolds, it promises to resonate with millions, especially students and aspirants who see their own struggles reflected in the journey of Sharma and Joshi.
