Allahabad High Court Criticizes 'Adipurush', Raises Question on Tolerance Test

NEW DELHI: Adipurush, a cinematic retelling of the revered Hindu epic Ramayana, has faced severe criticism and controversy over its dialogues, colloquial language, and portrayal of certain characters. Recently, the Allahabad High Court expressed strong disapproval of the film and questioned the intentions of its creators, asking if they considered the people of the country "brainless." The court also raised concerns about the testing of religious tolerance through the film.

During the hearing of a petition demanding a ban on Adipurush, the court voiced its concerns about the nature of the film's dialogues. It emphasized that Ramayana holds a sacred position for many and is regarded as a paragon in society. The court stated that people often read Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem recounting the story of Lord Rama, before leaving their homes.

The court's criticism extended to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), as it questioned why the board did not take appropriate action before granting a certificate to Adipurush. The bench of Justice Rajesh Singh Chauhan and Justice Shree Prakash Singh expressed their astonishment, questioning whether the gentle should be suppressed and highlighting the fact that believers of the religion depicted in the film did not create any public order issues. However, the court also acknowledged that those who protested against the film had forced cinema halls to shut down, while suggesting alternative ways to express their discontent.

Furthermore, the court stated that certain scriptures hold exemplary and worship-worthy qualities, making it essential to consider the respectful representation of such texts. It raised concerns about the alteration of dialogues in response to social media backlash, as this fueled further outrage among the audience.

Adipurush, featuring popular actors Prabhas and Kriti Sanon in lead roles, witnessed a remarkable opening at the box office. The film portrays the virtues of Lord Rama, including Dharma (righteousness), Courage, and Sacrifice, as depicted in its elegant poster. However, the movie faced multiple delays and controversies over the span of two years.

The Allahabad High Court's strong remarks highlight the sensitivity surrounding religious narratives in cinematic adaptations. The court's questioning of the film's impact on religious tolerance raises important considerations for filmmakers and the certification boards responsible for assessing cultural and societal sensitivities. The controversy surrounding Adipurush serves as a reminder of the need to strike a balance between creative freedom and respectful representation of revered religious texts.

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