The much-awaited film ‘Maharaj,’ starring Junaid Khan, son of Bollywood actor Aamir Khan, is now available on Netflix. Yash Raj Films (YRF) expressed their gratitude to the judiciary for allowing the film’s release.The film pays tribute to Karsandas Mulji, a courageous journalist and social reformer who fought against religious orthodoxy and the exploitation of women.
YRF stated “’Maharaj’ is a tribute to his indomitable fighting spirit and his courage to be on the right side of history. We have never produced a film that has tarnished the reputation of our country or our countrymen. Hope you watch the film and join us in saluting Karsandas.”
Gujarat HC Lifts Stay on ‘Maharaj’
The film was slated to release on June 14. However, its release was halted by the Gujarat High court over concerns that it might hurt the religious sentiments of the Vaishnavite sect and cause communal disharmony.
Justice Sangeeta K.Vishen personally viewed the film, and allowed Netflix to proceed with its streaming. She said that the court has arrived at the primary facie conclusion that the film ‘Maharaj‘ is based on events that led to the filing of the libel case and is not targeted at hurting the sentiments of the Pushtimargi community.
Based on The Libel Case of 1862
Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra and produced under YRF, the film is based on Saurabh Shah’s novel “Maharaj”, published in 2013 which sketches the events of the libel case which occurred in 1862.
According to the historical records, the libel Case was a trial that took place in 1862 in Bombay Court in British India. Karsandas Mulji, and Nanabhai Rustomji Ranina alleged that the religious leaders of Pushtimarg sect were involved in sexual liaisons with women devotees.
Karsandas Mulji, portrayed by Junaid Khan in the film, was a journalist and a social reformer known for his blunt critique of the unethical practices within the religious sect. He courageously fought against the head of the sect, involved in such malpractices.
Alongside Junaid Khan, the film also stars Jaideep Ahlawat, Sharvari Wagh, and Shalini Pandey.
Read more: ‘Maharaj’ Controversy: “Boycott Netflix” Trend Explained
