Acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has landed in controversy over his alleged casteist remarks against the Brahmin community, prompting multiple complaints and a heated backlash on social media. A fresh complaint was filed against him in Indore on Saturday, accusing him of hurting religious and social sentiments.
The controversy erupted following Kashyap’s social media posts criticizing the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) over the reported censorship of the upcoming film Phule, a biopic on social reformer Jyotirao Phule. In his post, Kashyap expressed concern about the resistance faced by films that explore caste-based issues, particularly those that highlight the legacy of anti-caste crusaders like Phule.
His comments, however, drew sharp criticism from many, who claimed he made objectionable remarks against Brahmins. This led to police complaints being filed in multiple locations.
Indore’s MG Road Police Station in-charge Vijay Singh Sisodia confirmed the development to ANI, stating, “A complaint has been filed by Anoop Shukla against film director Anurag Kashyap as he has hurt the social and religious sentiments of the Brahmin community and made objectionable comments. The investigation is underway.”
In Mumbai, Advocate Ashish Rai also submitted a complaint to the Police Commissioner, calling for strict action against Kashyap under hate speech provisions. “There is a citation from the Supreme Court which states that if any content like hate speech is given by anyone on the social media platform, then definitely an FIR should be filed… These statements are highly condemnable,” he said.
Facing mounting pressure and online abuse, Anurag Kashyap issued a public apology on Friday night. In his statement, he clarified that his apology was not for the original post but for a specific comment that he said had been taken out of context.
“This is my apology, not for my post, but for that one line taken out of context and the brewing hatred… So, what has been said cannot be taken back — and I won’t take it back. But if you want to abuse someone, direct it at me,” Kashyap wrote.
Highlighting the threats received by his family and associates, he appealed for decency, saying, “Brahmins, please spare the women — even the scriptures teach this much decency, not just Manusmriti. Decide for yourselves what kind of Brahmins you truly are. As for me, I offer my apology.”
As the controversy unfolds, the film Phule remains at the center of debate on creative freedom, caste narratives, and censorship in Indian cinema.
Sources By Agencies
