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Last Updated: April 13, 2025, 14:04 IST
Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa’s film Phule, directed by Ananth Mahadevan, has been rescheduled for release on April 25, 2025, following controversies and required edits from the CBFC. The film focuses on the contributions of reformers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule.
A poster of Phule.
The release of the eagerly awaited film Phule, featuring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, has been postponed amidst rising controversies. The film has faced backlash from certain members of the Brahmin community, who contend that it advances a narrative rooted in caste biases. In response to these concerns, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) mandated several edits prior to granting clearance for the film’s release. Consequently, Phule’s debut has been moved to April 25, 2025—an adjustment from its original premiere date of April 11.
Actor Pratik Gandhi expressed his disappointment regarding the delay. He originally hoped that Phule would launch on April 11 to commemorate the 197th birth anniversary of acclaimed social reformer Jyotirao Phule. Gandhi encouraged the Brahmin community to approach the film with an open perspective, allowing them to judge the complete narrative as it unfolds on screen.
In an interview with PTI, Gandhi shared his initial reaction to the delay: “I was shooting elsewhere when I found out about the two-week push. It was disheartening at first, but after discussing with the filmmakers, I understood the circumstances… These are factors beyond one’s control…”
He further elaborated, “This delay was particularly disappointing as April 11 marked a significant anniversary in history. The film’s original release date had profound importance. Nonetheless, I believe everything happens for a reason. The edits suggested were intended to soften certain aspects without diminishing the film’s essence, and it seemed that April 25 offered a more suitable option for the producers.”
Gandhi also noted his surprise at the reactions to the film but expressed understanding of the sentiments driving them. He urged critics to watch the full film before forming opinions, as the trailer might not adequately represent the film’s context.
The CBFC awarded Phule a ‘U’ rating on April 7, contingent upon the completion of specific edits, which involved omitting language associated with caste, such as ‘Mang’, ‘Mahar’, and ‘Peshwai’, and altering the term “3,000 saal purani ghulami” to “kai saal purani ghulami.”
Director Ananth Mahadevan confirmed that the production team accepted all suggested modifications by the CBFC.
Despite the edits, following the trailer’s release on April 10, concerns about the depiction of the Brahmin community resurged. In light of this criticism, the filmmakers opted to delay the film’s release.
Anand Dave, who leads the Brahmin Federation, expressed his view after watching the trailer, asserting that the film fosters casteism. He also called on the filmmakers to recognize the contribution of the ‘black Brahmin’ community, whom he claims played a supportive role for Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule. Amid the growing disputes, former state minister Chhagan Bhujbal consulted with Mahadevan and the producers in pursuit of a resolution.
In a conversation with News18, Ananth Mahadevan addressed the ongoing debate. He expressed hope that misunderstandings might be resolved, highlighting that reactions based solely on the trailer might not reflect the film’s overall message. “It’s crucial to acknowledge that social issues persist. Although we have made strides in women’s education and independence, gender and caste discrimination remain prevalent, especially in rural areas,” he stated.
Prior to the escalation of the controversy, Pratik Gandhi had conveyed his confidence regarding the film, asserting his belief in its merit despite potential backlash. He acknowledged the challenges of addressing sensitive topics in the current social media landscape, where even minor grievances can incite significant reactions. “Being fearless is essential in today’s world,” he concluded.
Phule depicts the lives of social reformers Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, who championed the cause of equality and education as fundamental rights. The film casts Pratik Gandhi as Jyotirao Phule, also referred to as Mahatma Phule, and Patralekhaa as Savitribai Phule, under the direction of Ananth Mahadevan.
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