'Phule' Movie Faces Backlash From Brahmin Group; Release Pushed Amid Caste Bias Allegation

The upcoming film 'Phule', which highlights the social reform efforts of trailblazers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, has sparked controversy ahead of its release.

Actor Pratik Gandhi will portray Mahatma Phule, while actress Patralekhaa will take on the role of Savitribai Phule. However, the film's release-originally slated for 11 April-has been postponed amid growing backlash.

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What is the controversy about?

Although the trailer of 'Phule', produced by Zee Studios, Dancing Shiva Films and Kingsman Productions, has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response online, it has also triggered criticism. Anand Dave, President of the Brahmin Federation, accused the film of promoting caste-based division.

He demanded that the role played by the "black Brahmin" community in aiding the Phules should be acknowledged in the film. According to him, the narrative should be more balanced and inclusive, rather than one-sided.

Producers, director meet Chhagan Bhujbal

In response to the controversy, the film's director Anant Mahadevan, along with producers Anuya Chauhan Kudecha, Ritesh Kudecha and co-producer Rohan Godambe, met senior NCP leader and former state minister Chhagan Bhujbal in Mumbai.

Mahadevan commented that "cinematic liberty is exercised in every film, and directors often choose which parts of the facts to portray."

Bhujbal's response

Bhujbal expressed his support for the film, stating, "This Hindi film, based on the life of Mahatma Phule, clearly reflects the hard work and dedication of the team behind it. It is a huge work that deserves to be seen-not only in India but across the globe."