Phule director Ananth Mahadevan has addressed the swirling controversy around the film’s release, clarifying that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) did not ask for any cuts in the movie.
No Cuts, Just Minor Changes, Says Director
Speaking to PTI, Mahadevan said the board only suggested minor amendments, not edits. He emphasized that the CBFC viewed the film as educational and suitable for youth and that any claims of censorship-related delays were “exaggerated.”
Objections From Community Caused Delay
The film’s release, originally scheduled for this Friday, has now been postponed to April 25. Mahadevan attributed the delay to objections raised by a section of the Brahmin community who were upset after watching the trailer. He explained that the trailer was misinterpreted and led to a back-and-forth between opposing groups. The director stated that the team wanted to ensure the film’s message wasn’t lost in controversy and decided to wait before releasing it.
The team opts for peaceful release over conflict.
In order to avoid unnecessary tension and preserve the spirit of the film, the makers have chosen to postpone the release. “We did not want to lose out on the audience… I would rather they come together and see the film peacefully,” Mahadevan said. The team is currently engaging with the media and audiences to clarify misconceptions and present the film in the right light.
Phule is a biographical drama centered on the lives of iconic social reformers Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, played by Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, respectively. The film aims to highlight their efforts in fighting caste- and gender-based oppression in 19th-century India.
