Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap is at the center of a growing controversy after his sharp criticism of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and remarks aimed at a section of the Brahmin community sparked outrage. The comments were linked to the censorship issues surrounding his upcoming film Phule, based on the lives of social reformers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule.
Clarification Amid Outrage and Threats
Kashyap took to Instagram to address the uproar, revealing that his family, colleagues, and daughter have received rape and death threats. In a heartfelt note, he wrote, “This is my apology, not for my post but for that one line taken out of context and the brewing hatred.” He emphasized that while he stands by his views, no expression is worth endangering loved ones.
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The Comment That Sparked the Fire
The controversy escalated after a now-viral Instagram reply where Kashyap responded to a provocative comment saying, “Brahmin pe main m*****a.. koi problem?” (I’ll pee on Brahmins… any problem?). He later clarified that his words were taken out of context and were a reaction to casteist provocation. He condemned those misusing religious scriptures to suppress marginalized voices.
I respectfully request @MumbaiPolice to take appropriate legal action and register an FIR against Mr. @anuragkashyap72 for his concerning behavior. If any action or statement by an individual poses a potential threat to public order, it must be addressed as per the due process of… pic.twitter.com/qaoBeUjZSg
— ADV. ASHUTOSH J. DUBEY (@AdvAshutoshBJP) April 18, 2025
Legal Trouble and Film Delay
A Mumbai-based advocate has lodged a police complaint against Kashyap, demanding an FIR for statements that allegedly threaten public order. As of now, Mumbai Police has not confirmed any FIR.
Meanwhile, Phule, which was granted a ‘U’ certificate by the CBFC on April 7 after several mandated edits, has had its release postponed to April 25. The delay followed objections raised by Brahmin groups over their community’s portrayal in the film.
As debates over censorship and caste representation intensify, Kashyap continues to defend artistic freedom while pleading for an end to personal threats.
