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- By Ridhi Suri
- Fri, 14 Jun 2024 08:08 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Gujarat High Court halted the release of Aamir Khan's son Junaid Khan's debut film 'Maharaj' following a plea by a Hindu group. The upcoming Netflix film is based on the true story of Karsandas Mulji, a journalist and social reformer. The group claimed that the movie could incite violence against followers of a Hindu sect. Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra and produced by Aditya Chopra, 'Maharaj' was scheduled for release on Netflix on June 14.
The stay was issued based on a petition filed by devotees of Lord Krishna and followers of Vallabhacharya, representing the Pushtimarg sect. The petition claimed that the film, reportedly inspired by the Maharaj Libel Case of 1862, could disturb public order and potentially provoke violence against the sect's followers and Hinduism in general. Justice Sangeeta Vishen of the Gujarat High Court reviewed the arguments presented by the Pushtimargis and issued an interim order halting the release of the movie in any form. The case is set to be heard again on June 18.
The Maharaj Libel Case of 1862, centered around allegations against a prominent figure and adjudicated by English Judges of the Supreme Court of Bombay, is alleged in the petition to criticise Hinduism and contain "seriously blasphemous comments" against Lord Krishna, devotional songs, and hymns.
According to India Today, the movie was being planned for release in a clandestine manner, without a trailer or promotional events, which the Hindu group argued was an attempt to withhold information about the storyline. They asserted that if the film were allowed to release, it would deeply offend their religious sentiments and cause irreparable harm. Amidst this, a 'Boycott Netflix' campaign gained traction on social media, with many expressing opposition, alleging that Netflix promotes 'anti-Hindu' content.
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About Maharaj
Starring Junaid Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Shalini Pandey in key roles, Maharaj also includes a special appearance by Sharvari Wagh. Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra and produced by Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films, the film aims to present a captivating narrative centered on the life and legacy of Karsandas Mulji.