The Gujarat High Court has issued an order to stay the release of Junaid Khan's debut film, 'Maharaj,' following a plea from a Hindu group. The film, directed by Siddharth P Malhotra and produced by Aditya Chopra, was scheduled to premiere on Netflix on June 14. The petitioners, devotees of Lord Krishna and followers of the Pushtimarg sect, claim that the film could incite violence against their community.
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Key Issues Raised by the Petition
1. Public Order Concerns: The petition alleges that 'Maharaj,' which is based on the historical Maharaj Libel Case of 1862, contains content that could disturb public order and incite violence against followers of the Hindu sect.
2.Blasphemous Content: The petitioners argue that the film makes blasphemous comments about Lord Krishna and Hindu devotional practices.
3. Lack of Transparency: The group contends that the film's release is being handled secretively, with no trailer or promotional events, preventing the public from understanding its storyline.
4. Religious Sentiments: The petition asserts that releasing the film would cause irreparable harm to their religious sentiments.
Interim Order and Upcoming Hearing
Justice Sangeeta Vishen has issued an interim order to halt the film's release. The case is scheduled for further hearing on June 18. This decision has sparked significant reactions on social media, with the hashtag #BoycottNetflix trending, as many users criticize Netflix for allegedly promoting anti-Hindu content.
About the Film 'Maharaj'
According to a press release from Netflix, 'Maharaj' follows the story of Karsandas Mulji, a journalist and social reformer known for advocating women's rights and social change. The film draws from the Maharaj Libel Case of 1862, a historic case involving allegations of misconduct against a prominent figure, adjudicated by the Supreme Court of Bombay.
FAQs
1. What is the Maharaj Libel Case of 1862?
The Maharaj Libel Case of 1862 involved allegations of misconduct by a prominent figure within a Hindu sect. It was adjudicated by the English Judges of the Supreme Court of Bombay and is a significant historical event.
2. Why was the release of 'Maharaj' stayed by the court?
The Gujarat High Court stayed the release due to a petition claiming that the film could incite violence and disturb public order by making blasphemous comments against Lord Krishna and the Hindu religion.
3. Who directed and produced 'Maharaj'?
The film was directed by Siddharth P Malhotra and produced by Aditya Chopra.
4. What is the storyline of 'Maharaj'?
'Maharaj' follows the life of Karsandas Mulji, a journalist and social reformer advocating for women's rights and social reform.
5. When is the next court hearing regarding the release of 'Maharaj'?
The next hearing is scheduled for June 18.
6. Why is there a call to boycott Netflix?
The call to boycott Netflix stems from allegations that the platform promotes content that is perceived as anti-Hindu.
