Netflix's "Maharaj" Sparks Controversy: Boycott Calls Trend on Social Media

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Netflix’s “Maharaj” Sparks Controversy: Boycott Calls Trend on Social Media

A day before its release, Netflix's "Maharaj" faces boycott calls over claims of negative portrayal of religious leaders. The film, starring Junaid Khan, debuts June 14.

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June 13, 2024 16:03 IST
Netflix’s “Maharaj” Sparks Controversy: Boycott Calls Trend on Social Media
Netflix’s “Maharaj” Sparks Controversy: Boycott Calls Trend on Social Media

New Delhi: A day before its premiere on Netflix, the new film “Maharaj,” starring Aamir Khan’s son Junaid Khan, is facing calls for a boycott on social media. Hashtags like #BoycottNetflix, #BanMaharajFilm, and #AamirKhan trended on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday.

“Maharaj,” which was produced and directed by Aditya Chopra and Siddharth P. Malhotra, is set in pre-independence India. It is based on the historic Maharaj Libel Case of 1862. The movie stars Junaid Khan as journalist Karsandas Mulji and Jaideep Ahlawat as Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj, a leader of the Vallabhacharya sect. The story focuses on Mulji’s fight for women’s rights and social justice.

Despite interest in the film, its release has caused controversy. Some pro-Hindutva groups claim it shows religious leaders in a bad light. The Bajrang Dal has even demanded a private screening and threatened legal action if their demands are not met.

The filmmakers have chosen not to promote “Maharaj” with teasers or trailers, only releasing a poster with the lead characters. Although this unusual approach caused a backlash, it has also increased curiosity.

The backlash against “Maharaj” underscores ongoing sensitivities around cultural and religious representations in media. Although the movie explores a significant historical event, the way religious people are portrayed in it has generated controversy and demands a content review as well as possible delays in the movie’s release. As Junaid Khan’s debut comes near, the argument over artistic expression vs cultural sensitivity in modern storytelling heated up.

This controversy is part of a larger pattern of protests against content on streaming platforms that some believe is anti-Hindu. Netflix previously withdrew the film “Annapoorani” after similar complaints.

“Maharaj” is expected to premiere on Netflix on June 14, despite ongoing disputes and potential disruptions from disappointed individuals.

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