Globally recognised filmmaker Anurag Kashyap finds himself at the center of a heated controversy post a provocative comment on the Brahmin community. His comment was in the context of the upcoming film “Phule”, directed by Ananth NArayan Mahadevan. This film, dating back to the 19th Century, portrays the real life struggles of Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule. Much prior to it’s release, this film has been facing backlashes, controversies, uprisings, delays and is turning into a filmmaker’s nightmare come true. Here’s what happened.

Controversy Catalyst

Since the announcement of Phule, objections and censorship drama has been overflowing regarding the historical wrongs by the Brahmin Community that are depicted in the film. Anurag Kashyap took to social media to express his support for the film and spoke against the censorship which was criticised by a social media user. In response to such criticism, in a now deleted post, Kashyap engaged furiously and wrote, “Brahmano pe mootunga,koi dikkat?” (I will urinate on Brahmins, any problem?)

This particular statement unleashed rage and widespread damnation.

Denunciation and Legal Action for Kashyap

The remark led to a landslide of problems across social media platforms. Legal complaints were filed against him accusing him for making derogatory remarks and insulting the Brahmin community on a national platform. Previously, Anurag Kashyap faced a legal battle when Actress Payal Ghosh accused him of Sexual Harassment. She leveraged her prior accusations in order to incite people to boycott Anurag Kashyap from society post his defamatory comment. Union Minister Satish Chandra Dubey went to the extent of labeling Mr.Kashyap as “a vile scumbag”. Clearly, his language was widely unacceptable leading to political threats.

Action To Reaction – The Apology

Unaware of the escalated turn of his remark, Kashyap issued a public apology. He also clarified that his apology does not extend to the original post but for that one line taken out of context that became the target for hatred. It is reported that his family also received threats after backlash. He stated “No action or speech is worth your daughter, family, or friends getting rape and death threats”.

Caste System – Abolished or Breeding?

This incident has stirred up the debate around caste system and it’s depiction in Indian Cinema. It shines light on the question of artistic freedom in our country and the limitations imposed by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). While there are people who have shown their support to Kashyap defending his right to free speech, there are others who found the comment unnecessary, distasteful and provocative.

What are your thoughts on this and do you agree with “Free Speech” or “Think Before You Speak?”