Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has openly criticized the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the government following the delay in the release of the biographical film Phule, directed by Ananth Mahadevan. The film, which portrays the lives of social reformers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, was initially scheduled for release on April 11, 2025, but has been postponed to April 25 due to objections raised by certain Brahmin groups in Maharashtra.
In This Article:
CBFC’s Demands and Kashyap’s Response
The CBFC granted the film a ‘U’ certificate on April 7 but requested several modifications. These included the removal of specific caste-related terms such as ‘Mahar’, ‘Mang’, ‘Peshwai’, and ‘Manu’s system of caste’. Additionally, a reference to ‘three thousand years of slavery’ was altered to ‘how many years of slavery’ .
Kashyap expressed his frustration on Instagram, questioning how certain groups accessed the film prior to its official release. He criticized the CBFC’s lack of transparency and consistency, stating, “When a film goes for censorship, there are four members on the board. Then how do external groups and organizations get access to the film? The whole system is rigged.”
Highlighting Government’s Stance on Caste
Referring to a previous CBFC screening of another film, Kashyap mentioned that the board had claimed, “Modi ji has eradicated the caste system in India.” He questioned the logic behind the objections to Phule, asking, “If the caste system doesn’t exist, then why are Brahmins offended by Phule? Who are you?”
Condemnation of Censorship Practices
Kashyap also criticized the government’s approach to films addressing social issues. He cited examples of other films like Punjab 95, Tees, and Dhadak 2 that faced similar challenges. He remarked, “I don’t know how many other films that expose the agenda of this casteist, regionalist, racist government are blocked. They are so ashamed to see their own face in the mirror. So ashamed that they can’t even openly talk about what is it about the film that bothers them.”
Personal Connection to the Subject
Sharing his personal connection to the subject, Kashyap revealed that his first theatrical play was based on the lives of Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the existence of casteism, stating, “If casteism didn’t exist, why would Phule have had to fight it in the first place?”
The delay in the release of Phule has sparked a broader conversation about censorship, representation, and the portrayal of caste issues in Indian cinema. Kashyap’s outspoken criticism highlights ongoing concerns about the suppression of socially relevant narratives in the film industry.
By – Kartik
