The release of Yash Raj Films’ highly anticipated movie ‘Maharaj’ on Netflix has hit a significant roadblock. Scheduled for release on June 14, the film faces uncertainty after the Gujarat High Court granted an ex parte temporary stay on June 13. This decision followed a petition from Hindus who argued that the film would offend their religious sentiments.
‘Maharaj,’ directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra and starring Junaid Khan and Jaideep Ahlawat, has been controversial for nearly ten days. The film depicts a Hindu religious leader from 19th-century Gujarat in an unfavourable light, which has sparked significant backlash. Prominent Hindu organizations like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Bajrang Dal have called for a boycott of the film, urging the Hindu community to stand against it.
The controversy gained further traction on social media, where hashtags like #BanNetflix and #BoycottNetflix trended on X (formerly Twitter). Users have voiced their concerns, claiming the film misrepresents Hindu saints and mocks their sentiments. One post stated, “Netflix is back with anti-Hindu content. Amir Khan’s son Junaid Khan starrer Maharaj movie shows Hindu sadhus and saints as miscreants and lustful. #BoycottNetflix Ban Maharaj Film.”
According to Netflix, ‘Maharaj’ is based on a true historical court case from 1862. It portrays an incident where journalist Karsandas Mulji questioned the moral conduct of a revered Hindu leader, Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj. Mulji’s reporting on the alleged sexual misconduct led to a defamation suit in the Bombay Court of British India, highlighting the bold actions of the journalist in confronting a powerful figure.
Despite the escalating controversy, Netflix has kept promotional activities for the film minimal, only releasing a poster and a brief description emphasizing the historic court case and the journalist’s bravery.
The VHP and its youth wing, Bajrang Dal, have been vocal in their opposition. Last week, the VHP demanded a pre-release screening, expressing concerns over the potential negative portrayal of the religious leader. They warned of halting the release and pursuing legal action if the film contained objectionable content.
As the situation unfolds, the future of ‘Maharaj’ on Netflix remains in limbo, with the court’s decision and public opinion playing pivotal roles. The film’s depiction of historical events continues to stir debate, highlighting the ongoing tensions between creative expression and religious sensitivity in Bollywood.
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