The release of the biographical film Phule has been delayed after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) raised objections to some caste-related words in the movie. The film is based on the lives of social reformers Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule. It was originally scheduled to release on April 11, which is also the birth anniversary of Jyotiba Phule. However, the release has now been postponed to April 21.
Phule Movie Release Delayed Over CBFC Objection
The CBFC has asked the filmmakers to remove words like “Mahar,” “Mang,” “Peshvai,” and references to “Manu’s system of caste,” calling them sensitive. These changes were made after complaints by a Brahmin group called the Brahmin Federation. The group said that the movie shows Brahmins in a negative way and accused it of promoting caste division. The president of the group, Anand Dave, also claimed that the film ignored the Brahmins who had supported Phule’s reform work.
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The film’s delay has caused controversy, with political leaders and others criticizing the decision. The Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar group), part of the opposition alliance in Maharashtra, strongly opposed the CBFC’s decision. Party leader Jitendra Awhad said that history should not be hidden or changed. He said that what is shown in the film is based on true events and facts. According to him, Phule and Savitribai played key roles in India’s social reform movement, and their story should be told honestly.
The film’s director, Ananth Mahadevan, said that Phule was made after deep research using many books and historical materials. The film stars Pratik Gandhi and Patralekha in the lead roles. It aims to tell the story of the fight against social injustice and caste discrimination in India.
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As debates over freedom of expression and historical truth continue, many are waiting to see the film’s final version when it is released later in April.
