Ridhi Dogra reacts to CBFC controversy around Phule
Ridhi Dogra reacts to CBFC controversy around Phule
Reportedly, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) urged the makers of Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa starrer Phule to make multiple edits before release. Ridhi Dogra has now reacted to it.
Phule, featuringPratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, will releases on 25th April, 2025.
‘Phule’ was deferred due to several controversies. Reports reveal that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked the makers of the film to make multiple edits to the film before release. In the midst of the controversy, Jawan fame actress, Ridhi Dogra voiced her utter disappointment, and criticized the hypersensitivity toward films. She questioned why artistic portrayals offend everyone more than the real-world injustices, and said that the situation is ‘depressing’. She also added that someone told her the future of entertainment is gaming. And with such restrictions on storytelling, the actress pointed out that it might be the direction things are heading towards.
Taking to her Instagram stories, Ridhi Dogra
re-shared journalist Faye D’Souza’s post that stated CBF stalled the release of ‘Phule’, and directed the film makers to cut scenes mentioning the caste system of Manu, and terms like Mang, Mahar and Peshwai, and to remove visuals showing a Dalit man carrying a broom. The post also mentioned that the film was initially granted a U certificate, but later was stalled after facing backlash from Brahmin organisations. Reacting strongly to this post,
Ridhi Dogra also wrote, that it’s depressing and is no way to make films. Why is everyone touchy and hurt by cinema and not actual real world around them to stop and take real action. Why?”
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She then added, “Heard someone tell her that the future of entertainment is Gaming… she doesn’t understand how but at this rate ya it looks likely.
Meanwhile, director Ananth Mahadevan recently said that the CBFC didn’t ask for any cuts in the film- just a few minor changes.
In a chat with the media he explained that the delay in the film’s release isn’t because of the censor board, but due to objections raised by members of the Brahmin community film, Ananth said, they had suggested some amendments, and he wouldn’t call it cuts. He wants to clarify that there are no cuts as such. They felt that the film should be watched by youth and everyone and it’s very educative. Mahadevan isn’t aware why this whole storm of conflict and counter arguments are happening, he feels it’s a little exaggerated and unnecessary.”
Phule is based on the life of social reformers Jyotirao Phule and his wife Savitribai Phule, who worked tirelessly towards promoting equality and education as a birthright. The film stars Pratik Gandhi as Jyotirao Phule, also known as Mahatma Phule and Patralekhaa as Savitribai Phule.
Phule, which was earlier slated to release on April 11, will now be released after two weeks, that is on April 25, 2025.
News Edit KV Raman
