Phule Postponed Hours Before Release After CBFC Intervention

‘Phule’, starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa as iconic 19th-century social reformers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, has been postponed just hours before its scheduled release. The delay comes after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) directed the makers to alter and remove several dialogues and visuals from the film. The film is now expected to release two weeks later.

According to a Mid-Day report, the CBFC objected to content related to caste representation. The board has asked the team to remove a voiceover referring to the caste system of Manu Maharaj and replace or delete terms such as 'Mang', 'Mahar', and 'Peshwai'. A particular visual showing a man carrying a broom must be replaced with a scene depicting boys throwing cow dung at Savitribai.

The CBFC has also recommended modifying key dialogues. For instance, “Jahan kshudro ko...jhadu bandhkar chalna chahiye” should be changed to “Kya yahi hamari...sabse doori banake rakhani chahiye,” and “3000 saal puraani...gulaami” to “Kai saal purani hai.” A 43-second dialogue referencing “3 M” has been deleted altogether. The filmmakers have reportedly submitted historical documentation to support the film’s content.

The decision to postpone was reportedly influenced by concerns raised by a section of the Brahmin community in Maharashtra over their depiction in the film.

Directed by Ananth Mahadevan and produced by Dancing Shiva Films and Kingsmen Productions, Phule tells the story of the Phule couple’s fight against caste oppression and gender inequality. The trailer, released recently, was praised for its powerful portrayal of their pioneering work in women’s education and Dalit upliftment.

This development echoes a growing trend of historical dramas facing scrutiny from religious and political groups. ‘Chhaava’ is among the most recent films to encounter similar challenges.