Netflix has told the Delhi High Court that the makers of Manoj Bajpayee’s upcoming film Ghooskhor Pandat have decided to change its title after strong objections from several groups. The streaming platform said the decision came after concerns were raised about the wording of the title, which some people claimed hurt the sentiments of the Brahmin community.
According to Netflix, the new title will align better with the story and intent of the project while addressing public concerns that surfaced ahead of its release.
Meanwhile, a Petition Challenges the Film
The development came during the hearing of a petition filed by Mahender Chaturvedi. He moved the Delhi High Court seeking a stay on the release of the film, alleging that both the title and its promotional material carried communally sensitive undertones.
Soon after the petition surfaced, protests began to grow in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Members of Brahmin organisations demanded a ban on the project, accusing the makers of deliberately targeting a particular community through the film’s name.
As Protests Intensify, Police Action Follows
As the controversy spread, authorities registered an FIR in Uttar Pradesh in connection with the issue. At the same time, demonstrations turned aggressive at several places, where protesters burnt effigies of the filmmakers and actor Manoj Bajpayee.
These developments added pressure on the makers and Netflix, pushing the issue beyond the entertainment space and into the public and legal spotlight.
Political Reactions Add to the Debate
Amid the rising tension, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak openly criticised the film industry. While speaking to the media, he said the way Indian culture — especially the Brahmin community — was being portrayed was “highly reprehensible.”
He further stated that filmmakers should not associate objectionable words with a community that has contributed significantly to the nation. According to him, such films should not reach the public.
Manoj Bajpayee Breaks His Silence
In response to the backlash, Manoj Bajpayee addressed the matter on social media and acknowledged the concerns raised by the public. He said the series never intended to target any community and that he respects the sentiments of those who felt hurt.
“When something you are part of causes hurt to some people, it makes you pause and listen,” the actor wrote on his official X handle. He also explained that his role focused on portraying a flawed individual and his journey of self-realisation, not a broader social group.
Director Clears the Air on Fictional Content
Following the actor’s statement, director Neeraj Pandey issued a clarification to address the controversy. He stressed that the series is entirely fictional and that the term used in the title referred only to a fictional character.
The makers also clarified that they withdrew the promotional material voluntarily, even before any official order was issued.
However, BJP Offers a Different Version
Meanwhile, the BJP claimed that Netflix removed the promotional content after receiving a directive from the Centre. This statement led to conflicting claims about whether the action was voluntary or government-driven.
With Netflix confirming a title change before the Delhi High Court, the controversy surrounding Ghooskhor Pandat continues to draw attention. The case has once again brought focus on the fine balance between creative freedom and community sensitivity in India’s entertainment industry.
