Mumbai, February 6: The upcoming Netflix film ‘Ghusskhor Pandit’ has ignited a firestorm of controversy even before its release. Critics from religious and Brahmin communities accuse the title of hurting sentiments by stereotyping priests as corrupt. Union Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh has led the charge, slamming the movie in a scathing Facebook post.
Singh, a prominent BJP leader, described the film’s title and portrayal as a ‘disgusting attempt’ to malign the Brahmin community. ‘Using casteist and offensive language in the title and depiction is utterly condemnable,’ he wrote, endorsing Uttar Pradesh Police’s actions under CM Yogi Adityanath’s directives in Lucknow.
The backlash extends beyond politics. Saints from Vrindavan have rallied in outrage, demanding an outright ban on the film. Speaking to media, they argued that the title tarnishes Sanatan Dharma and the revered role of pandits in Hindu rituals. ‘From births to deaths, pandits hold central roles in our sacred ceremonies. Labeling them ‘ghusskhor’ (bribe-takers) insults an entire community,’ one saint fumed.
They highlighted a pattern of targeting Hindu symbols and communities through media. ‘Kings and emperors once bowed to Brahmin wisdom. Today, filmmakers chase fame by vilifying them,’ the saints added, urging immediate government intervention against the producers.
As protests swell, the controversy underscores tensions between creative freedom and cultural sensitivity in India’s diverse society. Netflix faces mounting pressure to reconsider the release amid calls for legal action.