FazTimes Media, Mumbai, August 8 – A new controversy has broken out in Maharashtra’s cultural and political world regarding the Marathi film Khalid Ka Shivaji. The state government swiftly intervened to halt the film's screening and removed it from the Cannes Film Festival schedule.

Quick Government Action

Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs Minister, Ashish Shelar, confirmed on Friday that the state took action “right away” after getting complaints that the film spreads “lies” and harms the feelings of Shiv devotees. When speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Shelar said the government's position is clear: “We have taken this stand in line with Shiv devotees and society. We will not allow the showing of any film that spreads incorrect information about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

A letter dated August 6 from Maharashtra Culture Secretary Kiran Kulkarni to the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has asked the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to look again at the film’s approval certificate. The letter also asked the ministry to stop the film from being released until the review is done. The government's swift action comes just days before the movie's scheduled August 8 release. “There is worry that showing the film in its current form might lead to issues with law and order,” the letter said.

Cannes Screening Faces Scrutiny

The controversy has also spread to international film events. Experts suggested Khalid Ka Shivaji for the Cannes Film Festival in May. However, Shelar stated that his team later retracted the suggestion and requested the removal of the film from all Cannes Festival lists.

“This responsibility is on those who suggested the film for the festival. We have already sent an email to remove it from the Cannes listings. The CBFC has begun legal action because of complaints that the film wrongly portrays history,” Shelar explained.

Al Jazeera reports that debates over historical figures in India often lead to political and public reactions, especially when these figures are considered important national icons like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Some groups want the film banned, saying it could cause issues and anger if shown as is. Some areas have removed the film's posters, and online campaigns against the movie have intensified over the past week.

A relative of Shivaji Maharaj has spoken about the recent issue. Shivendrasinhraje Bhosale, the Minister of Public Works in Maharashtra and a direct descendant of Shivaji Maharaj, has weighed in on the controversy. Although he hasn't seen the film yet, he assured the public that he will not tolerate anything harmful or disrespectful to Shivaji Maharaj.

He told reporters, “If there is anything objectionable, the Chief Minister will think about stopping the film. We won’t tolerate anything that harms the image of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or other important figures from Maharashtra.”

His statement reflects the strong feelings people in the state have towards their historical leaders. Any sign of disrespect towards these historical figures can provoke significant public outrage.

The Filmmakers’ Position

So far, the producers and director of Khalid Ka Shivaji have not made a detailed public statement to explain their film. However, the CBFC has asked them to present their case. People who know about the film industry suggest they might argue for artistic freedom, a discussion that has come up in many similar situations before.

Impact on the Film Industry

Respectfully made films have the potential to unite people. However, if a film is perceived as inaccurate, criticism can arise quickly and strongly.

Public opinion is split on the issue. People have different views about the actions of the government. Some support the decision, while others believe people should be free to make their own choices. On social media, some are suggesting that private showings should happen first, where experts can check how accurately the film shows history before a final call is made.

A student from Pune said, "I respect Shivaji Maharaj, but stopping films without letting people see them seems like censorship." We should have a free discussion instead of stopping art.”

The Road Ahead

With the CBFC looking again at Khalid Ka Shivaji, the movie's future is still unclear. If the board thinks the content is not okay, they might ask for changes or say no to the film's release. If the creators can prove their story is fair and accurate, the movie may still be released, but it will face more scrutiny.

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