The eagerly awaited film ‘Phule,’ starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, based on the life and struggles of social reformers Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, has been postponed just before its scheduled release. Originally set for April 11, 2025, the film will now hit theaters on April 25, 2025.
Reason Behind the Delay
The delay in the film’s release is largely attributed to a political controversy that erupted over its content. The film portrays Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule’s fight against caste and gender injustices in 19th-century India. However, the Brahmin community has raised objections, claiming that the film portrays Brahmins negatively and promotes casteism.
One of the key points of contention is a scene in the film’s trailer where a Brahmin boy throws cow dung at Savitribai, which has sparked outrage within the community. Hindu Mahasangh, a Maharashtra-based organization, was particularly vocal about the scene and the film’s alleged degrading portrayal of Brahmins.
Censor Board’s Involvement
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) intervened, asking the filmmakers to make several changes to the film. Among the demanded cuts were the removal of a voiceover discussing the caste system and specific sensitive terms like “Mahar,” “Mang,” and “Manu system of caste.” Several dialogues were also requested to be altered for sensitivity.
Director Anant Mahadevan expressed disappointment over the demands, though he acknowledged the difficult position of the CBFC, which he believes plays it safe to avoid potential protests. Mahadevan clarified that while he made some changes to dialogues, the integrity of the story was preserved, and no scenes were cut.
Defending the Film’s Historical Accuracy
Mahadevan defended the historical accuracy of the cow dung incident, referring to it as a part of historical record. He pointed to an episode of the Bharat Ek Khoj series, which also depicted the same event. The director also addressed concerns raised by Anand Dave, a representative of the Hindu Mahasangh, about the film’s portrayal of Brahmins. Mahadevan said that the film acknowledges the positive role played by Brahmins in the Phule couple’s educational movement, stating that without Brahmins, there would have been no Phule.
The New Release Date
The film’s makers have now confirmed that ‘Phule’ will be released on April 25, 2025, following the changes requested by the CBFC and amid ongoing debates over its portrayal of social issues. Despite the controversies, Mahadevan remains committed to the film’s core message of highlighting the Phules’ pioneering work in education and their fight against caste-based discrimination.
