Cinema VinesVikrant Massey has spoken candidly about the emotional toll that social media backlash took on him after the release of the political thriller The Sabarmati Report. The actor, who has recently been praised for his performance in the first season of Netflix’s Musafir Cafe, appeared on Shekhar Suman’s talk show to detail the abuse, threats and personal data leaks he endured.
During the interview, Massey recalled that the film, which dramatises the 2002 burning of the Sabarmati Express in Godhra, drew intense criticism from viewers who labelled it “propaganda.” He said that the backlash included the leaking of his WhatsApp and car numbers and outright threats to his safety. The actor added that the situation was made even more difficult because his son had just turned six months old at the time.
“I was heavily impacted, and I openly said this in the media,” Massey told the audience. “Over time, I realised that they are all cowards, and it doesn’t matter to me what people talk about me. What matters is that my own people are my responsibility.” The actor’s remarks highlight the growing toxicity he feels on social media platforms.
Released on 15 November 2024, The Sabarmati Report follows journalist Samar Kumar, played by Massey, who is sent to Godhra to cover the tragedy. Years later, a new investigation led by Amrita Gill, portrayed by Raashii Khanna, brings the story back into focus. The film also stars Ridhi Dogra in a key role.
While dealing with the fallout from the film, Massey is also preparing for the second season of Musafir Cafe. Netflix has renewed the series, and the actor will reprise his role as Chander alongside a cast that includes Vedika Pinto, Mahima Makwana, Siddhartha, Anubha Fatehpuria, Loveleen Mishra and Sadia Siddiqui. Production is underway, with the emotional finale of season one setting high expectations for the upcoming season.
