Sarfira director Sudha Kongara regrets for misattributing revolutionary story to Veer Savarkar

Filmmaker Sudha Kongara has found herself at the center of a storm after she wrongly attributed a revolutionary story to freedom fighter Veer Savarkar. On Saturday, she expressed regret over her lack of knowledge and failing to check the facts before broadcasting her views publicly.

"I apologize for my ignorance. At seventeen, when I was just led into the world of women’s studies and I heard this anecdote from my teacher, I didn’t fact-check. I should have. As a student of history and rigorous research, I should have delved deeper. Thus, my interview was born out of sheer ignorance and no mal-intent ever to apportion credit for one’s achievements elsewhere. I promise not to give interviews anymore without checking my facts. I thank everyone who corrected me. Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule - forever respect. #VivalaRevolucion!" said Sudha Kongara in a statement.

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For the uninitiated, Sudha Kongara revealed her drive behind making movies that challenge the regressive views about women in society. She noted that when she was a teenager, she was told that Veer Savarkar fought against societal pressure to educate his wife. "Savarkar's wife wanted to stay at home like everyone at the time. But, Savarkar made her go to school. He even escorted her to school to protect her from criticism and mockery on the streets," she claimed.

Sudha noted that this story inspired her to question society's stance on matters of women's rights. She also revealed that she was a student of history, with a special interest in women’s studies.

Sudha's comments sparked a huge controversy on social media, with many fact-checking her and clarifying that the story actually belonged to Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule.

Jyotiba, a progressive thinker, recognized the potential of women and their role in society. He encouraged his wife, Savitribai, to learn to read and write.

The couple faced immense opposition when they decided to open a school for girls. They were ridiculed, insulted, and even physically attacked. Yet, they persisted. Savitribai became India's first female teacher.

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