Hansal Mehta offers heartfelt apology to Dr. Manmohan Singh for acting in The Accidental Prime Minister: “It is a regret I will carry with a very heavy heart”

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta has taken to social media to express a heartfelt apology to the late Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s former Prime Minister, economist, and statesman, for acting in the movie The Accidental Prime Minister. In a moving tweet, Mehta wrote, “The nation owes him an apology. More than anybody else, I owe him one. Whatever the compulsion or intent, it is a regret I will carry with a very heavy heart. Sorry, sir.”

The tweet goes on to highlight Mehta’s deep respect for Dr. Singh, not just as a leader but as a person, stating, “Besides your achievements as an economist, Finance Minister, and Prime Minister, you were an honorable man, a rare gentleman in a vocation dominated by ruffians.”

The apology is significant as it comes in the context of Mehta’s portrayal of former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in the 2019 film The Accidental Prime Minister. The movie, based on the book by Sanjaya Baru, drew criticism for its depiction of Dr. Singh, with many accusing it of undermining his legacy. Mehta’s tweet suggests a sense of regret for being associated with a project that may have contributed to a representation of Dr. Singh’s contributions and character.

Dr. Manmohan Singh served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. Known for his calm demeanor and integrity, he remained a respected figure in Indian politics despite facing criticism during his tenure.

Directed by Vijay Ratnakar Gutte, The Accidental Prime Minister starred Anupam Kher in the role of Dr. Manmohan Singh.

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