Supreme Court To Neeraj Pandey: Rename 'Ghooskhor Pandat' Or Face Ban

The Supreme Court of India has issued a notice to the makers of the upcoming film Ghooskhor Pandat, directing them to propose a new title or face a bar on its release. The court observed that the existing title appears to carry casteist undertones and could be interpreted as derogatory toward a particular community. During the hearing, the bench made it clear that no certificate or permission for theatrical or streaming release would be granted until the title is suitably changed, asking the respondents to file an affidavit detailing a revised name.

The petition before the court alleged that the title of the film, produced under the banner associated with filmmaker Neeraj Pandey and starring actor Manoj Bajpayee, insults and stereotypes a historically marginalised caste group. Petitioners contended that such naming violates fundamental rights to dignity and equality under the Constitution and has the potential to hurt community sentiments on a large scale. The Supreme Court agreed that film titles are not mere creative choices but carry public implications, especially in a diverse society, and must align with constitutional values.

The production team, including Neeraj Pandey, Manoj Bajpayee, and representatives from the streaming platform Netflix (where the film is slated for release), has been asked to respond to the notice and submit the proposed new title within the time frame set by the court. The bench emphasised that artistic freedom must be exercised responsibly and cannot come at the cost of offending or demeaning any section of society. This directive effectively puts the project on hold until compliance is demonstrated.

Also Read: FIR Against Neeraj Pandey as UP Govt Acts on ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’ Title Row

The controversy surrounding Ghooskhor Pandat has once again brought to the forefront the ongoing tension between freedom of expression in cinema and the need to protect vulnerable communities from derogatory portrayals. Similar interventions by courts in the past have led to title changes or content modifications in several films to avoid caste or community-related offence. Industry experts say such judicial scrutiny is becoming more frequent as petitions challenging cultural content gain traction.

As the matter progresses, the response from the filmmakers will be closely watched. A revised title that addresses the court's concerns could allow the project to move forward, while non-compliance risks indefinite delays or a complete block on distribution. The case underscores the judiciary's role in balancing creative liberty with social harmony and sets a precedent for how caste-sensitive objections are adjudicated in the context of modern Indian entertainment. The next date of hearing will follow the submission of the affidavit by the respondents.

Also Read: 'Ghooskhor Pandat' Teaser Pulled After Backlash; Pandey Says Sorry for Hurt Caused