Phule Release Postponed as CBFC Demands Dialogue Cuts and Changes

The release of the much-anticipated film Phule, starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, has been delayed by two weeks. The film, directed by Ananth Mahadevan, was originally set to premiere in theatres on April 11.

The postponement follows intervention by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which has asked the filmmakers to modify and delete several dialogues before it can be released.

CBFC Requests Changes to Dialogue and Visuals

According to a report by Mid-Day, the CBFC has asked the Phule team to make specific revisions to both the script and visuals.

Among the required changes is the removal of a voiceover referring to the caste system of Manu Maharaj. Other terminology flagged for removal includes “Mang,” “Mahar,” and “Peshwai.”

The board also asked the team to change the visual of a “man carrying a broom” to “boys throwing cow dung balls at Savitri Bai.”

Additionally, the dialogues—“Jahan kshudro ko……jhadu bandhkar chalna chahiye” and “3000 saal puraani…..gulaami”—must be changed to “Kya yahi hamari….. sabse doori banake rakhani chahiye” and “Kai sal purani hai,” respectively. A 43-second dialogue—“Yaha 3 M hai…Aur hum vahi karne ja rahe hai”—was also deleted.

Community Concerns Spark Controversy

The delay reportedly follows objections raised by a section of the Brahmin community in Maharashtra, who expressed dissatisfaction with their portrayal in the film.

Anand Dave, President of the Brahmin Federation, alleged that the film promotes casteism, adding to the controversy surrounding the release.

In response to the concerns, director Ananth Mahadevan met with community representatives and former state minister Chhagan Bhujbal to clarify the film’s intent.

“Cinematic liberty is taken in every film, each director takes only as much of the facts as shown in the film,” Mahadevan said.

Bhujbal added, “This is a Hindi film based on the life of Mahatma Phule. It seems that the director and the rest of the group have put in a lot of hard work, hence this film should be seen by all. Mahatma is a great work, not only in the country but it should reach all over the world.”

Director Mahadevan Responds to the Pushback

Addressing the controversy, Mahadevan stated, “We don’t get into a film with these kinds of doubts and fears in mind. When you’re talking about a fearless couple like Jyotiba and Savitribai, if you’re going to harbour those kinds of fear, then you don’t deserve to make the film.”

He continued, “What you can do is make it honestly, stick to the facts, research, don’t exaggerate and don’t make it look unrealistic in any way because their lives have been so dramatic that you don’t even need to take any cinematic liberties. In fact, you’ve to underplay a lot of things because it’s so dramatic!”

CBFC Had Initially Granted U Certificate

Interestingly, the CBFC had originally given Phule a ‘U’ certificate before calling for re-edits. The film’s producers have since submitted proper documentation to support all historical references included in the narrative.

Mahadevan also clarified that certain Brahmins had supported Jyotirao Phule’s efforts in history, including the establishment of 20 schools and the Satyashodhak Samaj.

He emphasized that the film is not driven by any agenda but is simply a factual portrayal.

Overview of the Film Phule

Phule features Pratik Gandhi as Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Patralekhaa as Savitribai Phule, 19th-century reformers known for their tireless work against caste discrimination and gender inequality.

The trailer, released recently, highlights their revolutionary efforts to challenge the status quo, especially for Dalits and women.

The film is produced by Dancing Shiva Films and Kingsmen Productions and will be released in theatres by Zee Studios. It is co-written by Ananth Mahadevan and Muazzam Beg and is categorized as a biopic.

Broader Context: Historical Dramas Under Fire

Phule is the latest in a series of historical dramas to face scrutiny from religious and political groups.

Recently, the film Chhaava also encountered backlash, highlighting an ongoing trend in Bollywood where historical representations trigger public and political debates.

Despite the setbacks, anticipation remains high for Phule, as it sheds light on a vital chapter in India’s social reform history. The filmmakers remain hopeful that the controversy will subside and the film will reach audiences as intended.