Kalki 2898 AD Sparks Controversy: Acharya Pramod Krishnam Sues Over Hindu Sentiments

A legal notice was issued, on Saturday, by former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam to the producers and actors of the recently released movie Kalki 2898 AD'.

The notice was directed towards Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan and South Indian film star Prabhas, among others. Acharya Pramod Krishnam asserted that the film has hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus.

Photo Credit: X/ANI

What Are The Allegations Of Religious Sentiment Violation?

Speaking about his actions, Acharya Pramod Krishnam emphasized the significance of India's emotional and devotional landscape, as reported by ANI. "India is a land of emotions, faith, and devotion. The values of Sanatana Dharma should not be tampered with. The scriptures of Sanatana should not be altered. Lord Kalki Narayan is at the centre of our faith. He is considered the final incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Much is written about the incarnation of Kalki in the Puranas, and based on this, PM Modi laid the foundation stone of Shri Kalki Dham on February 19," he said.

Kalki 2898 AD: Objections To Film Content

While speaking on the matter with ANI, Acharya Pramod Krishnam expressed that the film's portrayal of religious themes was inaccurate and disrespectful. "This film goes against what is described in our scriptures. This film is hurting our religious sentiments. Therefore, we have noted some objections and are waiting for a response. Playing with the sentiments of Hindus has become a pastime for filmmakers. Saints are portrayed as demons. Freedom of expression does not mean that you can play with our faith," he added.

The legal notice was sent by Ujjawal Anand Sharma, Advocate of the Supreme Court of India, on behalf of Acharya Pramod. The notice stated, "Your movie has changed the basic concept about Lord Kalki, from what has been written and explained in Hindu Puranic Scriptures and for the said reasons, the portrayal and depiction of the story of Lord Kalki is wholly inaccurate and also blatantly disrespectful to these sacred texts, which are central to the religious beliefs and practices of a vast number of devotees, numbering in the hundreds of crores," as reported by ANI.

Impact On Religious Sentiments

The notice further mentioned that the film's depiction of Lord Kalki has led to confusion and has the potential to irreparably tarnish the mythology and ethos of Lord Kalki in the hearts and minds of devout Hindus. This, in turn, could lead to misunderstanding, misinterpretation, and subsequent erosion of the Hindu faith, causing extreme distress to the religious sentiments of Acharya Pramod and the wider Hindu community.

About 'Kalki 2898 AD'

Directed by Nag Ashwin, 'Kalki 2898 AD' is a post-apocalyptic film inspired by Hindu scriptures and set in the year 2898 AD. The film features an ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, and Disha Patani. Described as a mythology-inspired sci-fi extravaganza set in the future, the movie also includes cameos by actors Vijay Deverakonda, Dulquer Salmaan, and Mrunal Thakur. 'Kalki 2898 AD' was released in theatres on June 27, as per media reports.

The controversy surrounding the film highlights the ongoing debate over artistic freedom and religious sensitivity in Indian cinema. The response from the film's producers and actors to the legal notice is awaited.