Aamir Khan's Son Junaid Khan's Debut 'Maharaj' Sparks Controversy: Hindu Groups Demand Ban

Aamir Khan's son Junaid Khan's acting debut with 'Maharaj' has sparked controversy even before release, with Hindu groups like Bajrang Dal demanding a ban over allegations of hurting religious sentiments.

  • Amit Diwan
  • Editorial
  • Updated - 2024-06-13, 12:00 IST
junaid khan debut movie

Junaid Khan, the son of Aamir Khan, is all set to make his Bollywood debut with the period drama 'Maharaj'. However, even before its release, the film has courted controversy, with certain Hindu outfits demanding a ban over claims that it negatively portrays a Hindu religious leader.

juand khan

Aamir Khan’s Son Junaid Khan's Bollywood Debut Controversy Explained

According to industry sources cited by PeepingMoon, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's youth wing Bajrang Dal has raised objections against 'Maharaj'. They allege that the film paints a Hindu religious leader in a negative light, which could hurt religious sentiments.

The Bajrang Dal has sent letters to the producers, Yash Raj Films, and the streaming platform Netflix, requesting an early screening of the movie before its global premiere on June 14, 2024. However, the makers have not responded to their demands so far.

In their communication, the Bajrang Dal has threatened to stall the release of 'Maharaj' if their demands are not met. They have also warned of taking legal action against the film if necessary. "If the makers do not comply with our demands, we will stall the release of the film," a representative of the outfit told PeepingMoon.

vhp letter

Interestingly, the makers of 'Maharaj' have adopted a minimal promotion strategy for the film, possibly to avoid any further backlash. No teasers, trailers, or promotional interviews have been released so far, despite the movie's release being just a day away.

“YRF and Netflix India don't want to add fuel to the controversy, so they have collectively decided on minimal promotion to avoid the negative publicity. The studio is using the same tactic it applied during Pathaan, when some religious groups threatened a boycott over using saffron costumes in a song. This no-promotion strategy might not generate the desired public traction, but it helps ensure the film’s release. The current priority is to release the film, as the makers believe its strong content will speak for itself once it’s out,” peepingmoon source explained.

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‘Maharaj’ Movie Real Story

maharaj

'Maharaj' is based on the true story of the Maharaj Libel Case of 1862, considered one of the most significant legal battles in India. Junaid Khan portrays the role of a journalist and social reformer, Karsandas Mulji, while Jaideep Ahlawat plays Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj, the head of the Vallabhacharya sect.

‘Maharaj’ Movie Release Date

As the release date of June 14 on Netflix approaches, it remains to be seen how the makers address the concerns raised by the Hindu groups and whether the film will face any further hurdles in its path to release.

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