Director Ananth Mahadevan of Phule has stated that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) recommended certain modifications rather than cuts to the film. In an interview with the news agency PTI, he explained that the film's release has been postponed due to concerns expressed by the Brahmin community, rather than the amendments proposed by the censor board.

Ananth Mahadevan speaks on Phule, CBFC

Speaking  Regarding the film, Ananth stated, "They proposed certain modifications, but I wouldn't refer to them as cuts. I want to emphasize that there are no actual cuts. We made those adjustments. They believed the film should be accessible to young audiences and everyone else, as it is quite educational. I am unsure why there is such a significant uproar and debate surrounding this; it seems somewhat overstated and unwarranted."

Ananth talks about film's row

Ananth He remarked that the "Brahmins were overly influenced by a two-minute trailer," asserting that there is nothing objectionable in the film. He explained that the delay in the release of "Phule" is intended to address the controversies surrounding it.

"They expressed their opinions on social media, prompting others to question, 'Why are the Brahmins protesting?' This led to a conflict between two groups. Our aim was to de-escalate the situation and convey that, 'It is not as you are imagining.' We did not want to alienate the audience... I would prefer that they come together to watch the film in a peaceful manner. Consequently, the producer and distributor collaborated and decided, 'Let’s postpone the release for an additional two weeks to resolve all controversies, engage with the media, and ensure the message reaches the public,'" he added.

About Phule, CBFC

Phule The film centers around the lives of social reformers Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, portrayed by Pratik Gandhi, and his wife Savitribai Phule, played by Patralekhaa. Originally scheduled for release this Friday, the biopic will now debut in theaters on April 25.

On April 7, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) granted a 'U' certificate to the filmmakers, while also requesting several modifications. These included the removal of terms such as 'Mang', 'Mahar', and 'Peshwai', replacing the image of a 'man carrying a broom' with 'boys throwing cow dung balls at Savitribai', and altering the phrase ‘3000 saal purani gulami’ to ‘Kai saal purani’, among other adjustments.

Following the online release of the trailer on April 10, some members of the Brahmin community voiced their concerns, claiming they were depicted unfavorably, according to PTI. Anand Dave, president of the Maharashtra-based organization Hindu Mahasangh, expressed his dissatisfaction after viewing the trailer for Phule.

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