The upcoming biographical film Phule, directed by veteran filmmaker Ananth Mahadevan, has seen its release postponed due to objections from certain social groups, despite already having cleared all the necessary hurdles set by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film, which explores the life and revolutionary work of 19th-century social reformers Jyotirao Govindrao Phule and his wife Savitribai Phule, was initially scheduled for release on April 11, but will now hit theatres on April 25.
Mahadevan, addressing the delay, emphasized that the hold-up had nothing to do with the CBFC’s involvement, as the team has already implemented all suggested modifications. According to him, the objections have come from factions within the Brahmin community, who have taken issue with specific portrayals and terminology used in the film. These objections have stirred a controversy that the filmmakers are now working to clarify and address before the film’s public release.
Starring Pratik Gandhi, known for his breakthrough role in Scam 1992, as Jyotirao Phule, and Patralekhaa as Savitribai, the film delves into the groundbreaking efforts of the Phule couple in the fight against caste-based discrimination and their pioneering work in the field of education for women and the marginalized.
Despite receiving a ‘U’ certificate from the CBFC on April 7 — indicating it is suitable for universal viewing — the film’s content required several alterations to align with board regulations. These included the removal of caste-specific terms such as ‘Mang’, ‘Mahar’, and ‘Peshwai’, which were deemed potentially inflammatory. Additionally, a particular scene originally depicting a man carrying a broom was replaced with an alternative visual of boys throwing cow dung balls at Savitribai, and the dialogue “3,000 saal purani gulami” was softened to “kai saal purani”.
Mahadevan explained that while these changes were significant, they were implemented well before the controversy erupted. “We respect the CBFC’s guidelines and complied with them promptly. The current delay has nothing to do with the board’s suggestions,” he clarified.
The director also expressed concern about the suppression of voices that aim to bring lesser-known history to light. “The Phules were among the earliest advocates of social justice and equality in India. It is unfortunate if an honest portrayal of their contributions becomes a point of contention rather than a celebration of their legacy.”
Supporters of the film have voiced concern over the growing trend of socio-political interference in creative projects, particularly those touching on sensitive aspects of caste and religion. The delay, while temporary, raises broader questions about the challenges faced by filmmakers attempting to tell stories rooted in social realities.
With the new release date set, Mahadevan and his team are hopeful that Phule will be received in the spirit it was intended — as a tribute to two pioneers of social change.
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