In a recent development, the Supreme Court has refused to entertain an urgent appeal against an order by the Allahabad High Court summoning the makers of the film Adipurush. The controversial film, which presents a modern retelling of the epic Ramayana, has faced criticism for its dialogues and use of colloquial language. The high court had directed the film’s director, Om Raut, producer Bhushan Kumar, and dialogue writer Manoj Muntashir to appear before it on July 27. Additionally, it had asked the central government to form a five-member committee to review the film.
The matter will now be heard by the Supreme Court on a later date, as the bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud asked the counsel for the film’s makers to mention the appeal again tomorrow. The high court’s order, issued on June 30 following petitions seeking a ban on the film, cited concerns over alleged disrespect to the Hindu god Rama due to the film’s dialogues. The court had also called for clarification from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Central Board of Film Certification on whether the film had followed the certification guidelines.
The Supreme Court’s decision on whether to stay the high court’s order has generated significant interest within the film industry and sparked discussions on the freedom of expression in India. With the hearing postponed, the makers of Adipurush will have to adhere to the Allahabad High Court’s summons and await its decision regarding the film’s fate. The outcome of this case is poised to have important implications for the artistic and creative liberties of filmmakers in the country.
