Radical Right-Wing Faction Demonstrates Against Khalid Ka Shivaji Movie Online, Alleging Distorted Historical Accounts; Mumbai Police Issues Summons
In the ongoing controversy surrounding the Marathi film "Khalid Ka Shivaji", right-wing Hindu groups, including the Sakal Hindu Samaj and the Hindu Mahasangh, have expressed their objections. The groups claim that the film distorts the history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj by portraying him as a secular ruler, which they argue contradicts his true identity as a Hindu and Maratha icon.
The Sakal Hindu Samaj has specifically accused the film of spreading "false history" and attempting to create communal division. Their protests on social media have led to Mumbai Police issuing warnings and taking preventive measures to avoid unrest related to the film’s release.
The film, which tells the story of a boy named Khalid who finds inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj after being isolated by his peers because of his religion, has been selected for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival this year. However, this selection has not deterred the right-wing groups from their protests.
The controversy has sparked cultural and political debate, with filmmakers defending the work as an attempt to present history from a new perspective, while right-wing groups view it as an insult to historical facts and sentiments.
Some critics have also pointed out certain claims in the film, such as the composition of Shivaji's army including a significant percentage of Muslim soldiers and details about his bodyguards, as objectionable and distorted.
The Bhandup division of Mumbai police issued a notice to members of the WhatsApp group associated with the Sakal Hindu Samaj, warning them of strict action if they decide to protest in the city. The police notice stated that such messages can disrupt the peace of the city and cause inconvenience to locals.
Despite the controversy and warnings, members of the Sakal Hindu Samaj have expressed their disappointment over receiving the police notice against their social media protest. The group continues to voice their opposition to the film, calling for a ban on its screening and urging cinema halls not to show it.
The Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister, Ashish Shelar, has expressed pride in the film's global presentation and defended its narrative, stating that it highlights the thoughts of young minds and their quest for identity in today's society. The controversy surrounding "Khalid Ka Shivaji" continues to make headlines, with both sides presenting their arguments and awaiting a resolution.
[1] Sakal Hindu Samaj posts objections to "Khalid Ka Shivaji" on X. [2] Right-wing groups demand ban on "Khalid Ka Shivaji" over historical misrepresentation. [3] Mumbai Police warns Sakal Hindu Samaj of strict action over social media protests against "Khalid Ka Shivaji". [4] "Khalid Ka Shivaji" selected for Cannes Film Festival. [5] Critics point out objectionable and distorted claims in "Khalid Ka Shivaji".
- The Sakal Hindu Samaj takes to social media to voice their objections towards the recently controversial Marathi film, "Khalid Ka Shivaji."
- Right-wing groups in India are urging for a ban on the film "Khalid Ka Shivaji," claiming it distorts historical facts and sentiments.
- Posting on social media about the protests against "Khalid Ka Shivaji" has led to Mumbai Police issuing warnings and taking preventive measures to avoid unrest related to the film’s release.
- The film "Khalid Ka Shivaji," a story that revolves around a boy finding inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his army's diversity, has been selected for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival this year.
- Critics and filmgoers alike are discussing the depiction in "Khalid Ka Shivaji" of Shivaji's army including a significant percentage of Muslim soldiers, considered by some as potentially distorted.
