Aligarh, February 6: The cow protection-themed film ‘Godaan’ hit theaters today amid a storm of controversy. Barely out of the gates, the movie faces fierce backlash from religious leaders accusing it of targeting Muslims and stoking communal tensions.
Directed to highlight cattle smuggling and the sanctity of cows, ‘Godaan’ has drawn ire for specific scenes. Critics point to depictions of a skullcap-wearing man at gunpoint and inflammatory dialogues as evidence of prejudice. Leading the charge is Maulana Chaudhary Iffrahim Hussain, who has urged the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to immediately halt screenings.
In an exclusive interview, Maulana Hussain condemned the film’s narrative. ‘I strongly denounce reports that ‘Godaan’ spreads hatred against Muslims through scenes like pointing a gun at a man in a cap and derogatory remarks,’ he stated. Supporting earlier objections from Maulana Ishak, he slammed filmmakers for prioritizing profits over social harmony. ‘Such content divides society and insults communities, castes, or religions without remorse,’ he added.
The Maulana called for strict measures against hate-mongering producers. ‘These films hurt religious sentiments and demean people. I request the CBFC to reject such works outright. The public must boycott movies that fracture unity,’ he emphasized.
The opposition isn’t isolated. Uttar Pradesh Congress senior leader Anshu Awasthi labeled ‘Godaan’ a hate agenda, claiming it fosters discrimination between communities. ‘Films like this need a total ban,’ he asserted. Congress leader Poonam Pandit went further, criticizing the portrayal of former PM Indira Gandhi as responsible for cow atrocities, calling it a gross misrepresentation.
As ‘Godaan’ navigates this uproar, the debate intensifies over cinema’s role in promoting unity versus division. Will the CBFC intervene, or will audiences decide its fate? The coming days will tell.