Phule Caste Controversy: Director Ananth Mahadevan Defends The Film
Updated on: 11 April, 2025 01:30 PM IST |Shweta Shah
What is Phule caste controversy?
Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa starrer Phule, based on the life of social reformers Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, has been postponed just hours before its release. The surprising news comes amid the backlash the film faced due to the Brahmin caste controversy.
The film was originally scheduled to be released on April 11. However, due to concerns raised by Anand Dave, the president of the Brahim Federation, the release date of Phule has now been pushed to April 25.
Amid the whole uproar, director Anand Mahadevan defended the film and argued that it promotes casteism. He also pointed out that the "Black Brahmin community," whom he claims backed the Phules, be given a vital role as well. He also demanded that the film have a more inclusive and balanced representation.
Anand Mahadevan defends Phule amid caste controversy
The filmmaker offered his point of view after meeting with the former state minister, Chhagan Bhujbal, and said, "We don`t get into a film with these kinds of doubts and fears in mind."
You don`t deserve to make the movie if you`re going to carry such fear when discussing a fearless couple like Jyotiba and Savitribai," he said in an interview with News18.
Also Read: Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa’s Phule Postponed Hours Before The Release
Mahadevan stated that he wanted to avoid overdramatization and superherofication by sticking to the facts.
He added, "You don`t even need to take any cinematic liberties because their lives have been so dramatic; you can just be honest, stick to the facts, do your research, and avoid exaggeration or making it seem unrealistic in any way. Actually, because it`s so dramatic, you have to downplay a lot of things!"
Anand Mahadevan shares his intentions of making Phule
What`s interesting is the filmmaker is a Brahmin himself. He dived deep into his past and acknowledged the culture and background he comes from.
"I`m a Brahmin myself. Naturally, I will first ask myself if I`m doing the right thing if I have to make a movie about caste differences. I wouldn`t be letting the world`s Brahmins come and question me and cast doubt on my motives. They should be aware that you are not allowed to question the patient`s treating physician. The doctor would care about his patients` well-being," he said.
Phule, featuring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, will now be released on April 25.
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