CBFC Stall the Release of ‘Phule’: The much-anticipated biopic ‘Phule’, starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekha, has hit a major roadblock just ahead of its scheduled theatrical release. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has raised objections to several scenes and dialogues in the film, leading to a two-week delay in its release.
Originally slated to hit cinemas this Friday, the film is now on hold until the makers comply with the board’s recommended changes. Let’s take a look at what exactly caused this delay and which parts of the movie were flagged.
CBFC Raised Concerns Over Caste-Related Content
According to sources, CBFC has asked the filmmakers to remove or revise certain dialogues and voiceovers that touch upon caste and community-specific references. Particularly, words like “Mang”, “Mahar”, and “Peshwai” have been deemed sensitive and are to be edited out or replaced.
One of the key scenes, which originally depicted a man holding a broom, is now being suggested to be replaced with a scene showing boys throwing cow dung at Savitribai Phule — a symbolic yet historically inspired visual.
Dialogues have also been revised. For instance:
- The line “जहां क्षुद्रों को झाड़ू बांधकर चलना चाहिए” has been modified to a softer “क्या यही हमारी सबसे दूरी बनाके रखनी चाहिए”.
- Another line referencing “3000 साल पुरानी गुलामी” has been shortened to “कई साल पुरानी है”.
- A 43-second voiceover that said “यहां 3 एम है… और हम वही करने जा रहे हैं” has also been asked to be removed completely.
Protests Added to the Delay
Apart from the CBFC’s intervention, reports suggest that a group from the Brahmin community in Maharashtra raised objections over some scenes in the film, alleging misrepresentation of their community. This controversy intensified the situation, prompting the filmmakers to delay the release voluntarily until the issues are resolved.
What is ‘Phule’ About?
Phule is a biographical film based on the lives of 19th-century social reformers Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule. The movie aims to highlight their struggles against caste discrimination, their work in promoting women’s education, and support for widow remarriage during a time of deep-rooted social inequality.
Directed by Ananth Mahadevan, the film is produced by Dancing Shiva Films and Kingsmen Productions, and will be distributed by Zee Studios.