Kunal Nayyar defends ‘Christmas Karma’ amid critical backlash
Kunal Nayyar has responded to the adverse reviews of his new film, Christmas Karma, which sees him take on the role of Indian Scrooge, Mr Sood, in a spin on Charles Dickens’s classic tale. Despite facing a critical mauling, Nayyar maintains a resilient attitude, stating that cinema-goers have supported the film, and it ranks sixth at the box office, significant for an independent production budgeted at £8 million, reports BritPanorama.
Critics have not held back, with The Daily Telegraph awarding the film zero stars, labelling it “the worst thing to happen to Christmas since King Herod,” while The Guardian described it as “nausea-inducing” and gave it just one star. Nayyar acknowledges this critique yet urges viewers to focus on the film’s positive reception from audiences. “We came in sixth at the box office, which is huge for an independent movie, being pitted against movies with budgets of £200 million,” he remarked.
The storyline of Christmas Karma draws attention to the immigrant experience, particularly that of 80,000 Asians expelled from Uganda under Idi Amin in 1972. The film explores themes of identity, acceptance, and resilience through Sood’s journey, facing violent hostility from extremists and societal rejection. Nayyar highlights the importance of sharing these “untold stories” and the cultural significance they hold.
Raised in New Delhi and educated in the US, Nayyar found connection to the narrative through his own cultural background. He initially hesitated to take the role, fearing the legacy associated with Dickens’s characters, but felt compelled as he learned more about the realities faced by those expelled from Uganda. “This film is so much bigger than me wanting to play a character; this is a story about a marginalised community that needs to be told,” he explained, stressing the need for awareness and dialogue surrounding such historical injustices.
Chadha, known for her films that resonate with the Indian diaspora, uses this adaptation to depict the complex struggles of identity and belonging, rooted in personal experiences. Nayyar’s portrayal captures the emotional weight of the narrative, which brings to light the effect of socio-political turmoil on personal lives.
As the film gains traction despite critical resistance, Nayyar expresses hope that audiences will recognise the broader messages embedded within its story. He encourages compassion and understanding, rejecting divisive attitudes, and advocating for acceptance across communities. “You have to do it for yourself,” he concludes, reminding potential viewers that self-initiated change can lead to greater understanding and social harmony.
‘Christmas Karma’ is in cinemas now.
