Manoj Muntashir and Anurag Kashyap
| Photo Credit: X/ @manojmuntashir, KSL
Lyricist and screenwriter Manoj Muntashir has strongly criticised filmmaker Anurag Kashyap for his recent controversial comment directed at the Brahmin community. In a video shared on Instagram, Muntashir responded to Kashyap’s remark and issued a direct challenge, calling his words “disrespectful” and “irresponsible.”
The controversy stems from Kashyap’s response to criticism faced by his upcoming film Phule, which depicts the lives of social reformers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule. After the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) reportedly asked for modifications to the film, Kashyap took to social media, expressing frustration over objections raised, particularly from Brahmin groups.
This response triggered backlash online, and Muntashir’s video added fuel to the debate. “If your income is less, restrain your expenses, and if your information is less, restrain your words,” Muntashir said in Hindi, directly addressing Kashyap. “You do not have it in you to pollute even an inch of the Brahmin legacy.”
He went on to list 21 prominent Brahmin figures — including scholars, freedom fighters, and leaders — and challenged Kashyap to choose any one of them and explain his position. “I, a Brahmin, give you an open challenge,” Muntashir said. “Pick one name from the 21 names, and I’ll send you their photograph. If you cannot act on your words, learn to stay within your limits.”
Kashyap, in a follow-up post, apologised for the specific remark but maintained his position on the need to tell the story of Phule. He said the comment was taken out of context and added that members of his family, including women, had since received rape and death threats. He urged those attacking his family to stop, stating, “I will take responsibility for what I say, but leave my family out of it.”
Phule, directed by Ananth Mahadevan and starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, explores the legacy of the Phules and their fight against caste oppression and gender inequality. Initially slated for an April 11 release, the film has now been delayed, with no new release date announced.
Published – April 20, 2025 01:48 pm IST