Why Doesn’t Hrithik Roshan Want You to Read This Book?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Hrithik Roshan warns against reading '1984'.
- The novel portrays a disturbing vision of a totalitarian future.
- Orwell's work remains relevant in today's context of surveillance and state control.
- Key concepts include “Newspeak” and “thoughtcrime”.
- The book has inspired adaptations, including ‘Bigg Boss’.
Mumbai, Dec 18 (NationPress) Bollywood icon Hrithik Roshan expressed his reluctance to endorse a book he recently explored. On Thursday, the celebrated actor shared an image on his Instagram, showcasing himself with the renowned classic '1984', penned by George Orwell.
In his caption, he conveyed, “A part of me wishes I had never read this one! Now that I have seen it, I can never unsee it!! Nobody read this. Please. Just don't. Trust me. Don't.”
'1984' is a dystopian narrative set in a bleak, totalitarian future where the state exerts absolute control over truth, history, and individual thought. The tale unfolds in Oceania, a superstate governed by the Party and its omnipresent leader, Big Brother. Citizens are perpetually surveilled via telescreens, and free thought is condemned as “thoughtcrime”.
The plot centers on Winston Smith, a low-ranking Party official employed at the Ministry of Truth, where he modifies historical records to align with the Party’s evolving narratives. Secretly disenchanted, Winston questions the regime and seeks personal liberation through forbidden love and rebellion.
However, the Party’s dominance is unyielding, employing psychological manipulation, torture, and fear to ensure compliance. 1984 delves into themes of authoritarianism, surveillance, propaganda, and the degradation of language and truth. Concepts such as “Newspeak”, “doublethink,” and “thoughtcrime” exemplify how language and ideology can be weaponized to constrain human freedom. Orwell’s narrative remains deeply relevant, often referenced in discussions about state control, misinformation, and privacy. Its lasting significance lies in its stark warning regarding the perils of unchecked power and the vulnerability of individual liberty amidst systemic oppression.
This book also inspired the reality show ‘Big Brother’, which has been adapted in India as ‘Bigg Boss’.