Manoj Muntashir and Anurag Kashyap | Photo Credit: X/ @Manojmuntashir, KSL
Lyricist and screenwriter Manoj Muntashir strongly criticized filmmaker Anurag Kashyap for its recent controversial remarks directed in the Brahmin community. In a video shared on Instagram, Muntashir responded to Kashyap’s remarks and released a direct challenge, which his words were called “derogatory” and “irresponsible”.
The controversy Kashyap’s response stems from criticism to face his upcoming film. FuleWhich reflects the life of social reformers Jyotiro and Savitribai Phule. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) allegedly asked to amend the film, Kashyap took on social media, especially expressed disappointment over the objections raised from Brahmin groups.
This reaction triggers online backlash, and Muntashir’s video added fuel to the debate. “If your income is low, stop your expenses, and if your information is low, control your words,” Muntashir said in Hindi, directly addressing Kashyap. “You do not have this to pollute even an inch of Brahmin heritage.”
He went to list the 21 major Brahmin figures – including scholars, freedom fighters and leaders – and challenged Kashyap to choose one of them and explain their position. “I, a Brahmin, gives you an open challenge,” said Muntashir. “Choose one of the 21 names, and I will send you their picture. If you can’t work on your words, learn to be within your boundaries.”
In a follow -up post, Kashyap apologized for specific remarks, but maintained his position on the need to tell the story FuleHe said that the comment was excluded from the context and said that his family members including women had received threats of rape and death. He urged those who attacked his family to stop saying, “I will take responsibility for what I say, but leave my family out of it.”
FuleDirected by Anant Mahadevan and starring Pratik Gandhi and Patilekha, the legacy of the Phools and the oppression of the caste and their fight against gender inequality. Initially slate for the release of April 11, the film is now delayed, in which no new release date has been announced.
Published – April 20, 2025 01:48 pm IST
