Anurag Kashyap Slams CBFC and Brahmin Opposition Amid ‘Phule’ Biopic Controversy
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has strongly criticised the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and certain Brahmin groups over the controversy surrounding Phule, the upcoming biopic on social reformers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule.
Directed by Ananth Mahadevan and featuring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, the film’s release was initially scheduled for April 11 but was postponed to April 25 following backlash.
CBFC-Ordered Edits and Certification
On April 7, the CBFC granted the film a ‘U’ certificate but required several edits. Among the mandated changes were the removal of caste terms like ‘Mahar’, ‘Mang’, and ‘Peshwai’.
Additionally, the line “3,000 saal purani ghulami” was altered to “kai saal purani ghulami”. Mahadevan confirmed that these modifications were implemented to comply with the CBFC’s requirements.
Kashyap’s Sharp Reaction on Social Media
Reacting to the censorship, Anurag Kashyap took to Instagram to voice his frustration.
He wrote, “Punjab 95, Tees, Dhadak 2, Phule — I don’t know how many other films are blocked… this casteist, regionalist, racist government is so ashamed to see their own face in the mirror.”
Kashyap questioned why films are being blocked without clear reasons, calling the system “rigged” and the authorities “f***ing cowards”.
He also questioned how groups protesting films could view them before their official release. “How do these wings and groups see the film before its release? Unless someone’s giving them access. The whole system is rigged,” he added.
Questions Over the Existence of Caste
In another Instagram post, Kashyap addressed the contradictions around caste narratives. “If there’s no caste system, why are Brahmins upset over Phule? Who are you if caste doesn’t exist? Why are you burning with anger? Decide if casteism exists in India or not. People aren’t fools.”
Filmmaker Anubhav Sinha supported Kashyap’s stance and criticised the hypocrisy in differentiating truth in cinema and political discourse. “Why should only cinema lie?” he wrote.
Personal Connection and Continued Criticism
Anurag Kashyap reflected on his personal connection with the Phules’ story, stating, “Meri zindagi ka pehla natak Jyotiba aur Savitribai Phule pe tha…”
He highlighted the irony of Brahmin outrage if casteism truly doesn’t exist and called out what he viewed as selective shame.
He also questioned how the film was leaked during its review process by the CBFC, asking, “How the f*** the groups and the wings get access to films until and unless they are given access to it? The whole f******g system is rigged”.
Referring to other blocked films like Punjab 95, Tees, and Dhadak 2, he accused the authorities of suppressing works that highlight uncomfortable truths.
He stated that the government is “so ashamed to see their own face in the mirror” and alleged they are too cowardly to specify what offends them.
Highlighting Contradictions in Government Claims
In another post, Kashyap mentioned the CBFC’s reasoning behind denying screening for Dhadak 2, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s claim that the caste system no longer exists in India.
He questioned this logic, stating, “Bhai mil ke decide kar lo. India mein casteism hai ya nahi…” He pointed out that if the caste system no longer exists, then Brahmins should not be affected by Phule. “Kaun ho aap. Aap ki kyon sulag rahi hai,” he asked.
He pressed further, “Ya sab log milke sab ko c*****a bana rahe ho. Bhai mil ke decide kar lo . India mein casteism hai ya nahi. Log chutiya nahin hain. . Aap Brahmin log ho ya phir aap ke baap hain jo upar baithe hain . Decide kar lo.”
Director Ananth Mahadevan Clarifies the Film’s Intent
Director Ananth Mahadevan defended the film’s narrative and responded to objections raised by certain Brahmin groups.
In an interview with The Deccan Chronicle, he said the backlash likely came from a “knee-jerk reaction after seeing the trailer.”
He explained that the film actually portrays a strong bond between Phule and supportive Brahmins who aided his efforts to start schools. “You cannot sort of alienate the Brahmins from his life,” he said.
Mahadevan stressed that the film only opposes the ideologies that resist progress for the oppressed.
He stated, “In every community, there is always some group or some kind of ideology that creates differences unnecessarily and revolts against reform… when Jyotiba tries to educate the discriminated classes, there are a few groups of people who try to put a spoke in the wheel.”
New Release Date and Film Overview
Following the CBFC battle and the objections from sections of the Brahmin community, Phule will now release on April 25.
The biographical drama showcases the life and reformist work of Jyotirao Phule, portrayed by Pratik Gandhi, and Savitribai Phule, played by Patralekhaa.
The couple led pioneering efforts against caste discrimination and championed women’s education, notably founding India’s first girls’ school in 1848.
