New Delhi: Phule starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, and directed by Ananth Mahadevan, was initially set to release on April 11, 2025. However, the Brahmin community in Maharashtra expressed their concerns about their depiction in the film. Following the backlash, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has asked the makers to make several changes in the film. The makers were suggested 12 changes to ensure the movie is ready for release.

In a recent interview, the director spoke about the film and the importance of spreading the core messages it carries. Although he wished for the movie to be released without changes, here is what he had to say about the modifications.

Phule Director Mahadvan on Contraversy

In an interview with The Indian ExpressAnanth Mahadevan revealed that Phule is now gearing for an April 25 release. He explained that they carried out all the changes that the censor board wanted, as they hoped for a ‘U’ certificate. “It was important for a film like Phule to have a ‘U’ certificate because people of all ages should watch it,” said Mahadevan. However, he also defended the film, stating that the makers did not take any creative liberties while filming.

It is to be noted that after the first CBFC committee report, there was discussion about retaining a few crucial scenes. Mahadevan explained that there were a few scenes that included certain incidents that they hoped to retain in order to not break the continuity in the film.

Finally, the director put forward his view on the controversy and clarified, “There was nothing so volatile that it would have hurt people’s sentiments. It is based on history as it happened and represented in an honest manner in the movie.”

For those unversed, the Akhil Bharatiya Brahmin Samaj and Parshuram Aarthik Vikas Mahamandal are among a few organisations that have voiced their concerns against the movie, stating that the film defamed them.