BJP’s Ram Kadam says Adipurush producers should be banished from industry, film must be banned: ‘We won’t allow its screening’

Previously, Mishra had said that a shot of Lord Hanuman wearing leather is offensive. “I have seen the trailer of Adipurush. There are objectionable scenes in it,” Mishra, who is also the spokesperson of the state government, told reporters. “Hanuman ji is shown wearing leather, whereas the description (in the scriptures) of the deity’s costume is different… These are scenes that hurt religious sentiments. I am writing a letter to Om Raut to remove all such scenes from the film. If not removed, we will consider legal action,” Mishra added. Uttar Pradesh deputy chief ministers Kesav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak also joined in the chorus condemning the film, based on a teaser that was released online last week. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad and BJP spokesperson Malavika Avinash have also spoken out against the movie.

Additionally, Satyendra Das, the head priest of the Ram temple of Ayodhya has also called for a ban on the film, suggesting that its portrayal of Lord Rama, Sita and Ravana are inaccurate. “Making a film is not a crime but they should not be made to create deliberate controversies to hog the limelight,” he said.

Meanwhile, the audience is lashing out against the film on creative grounds. The teaser has attracted significant criticism for its poor visual effects. Director Om Raut told indianexpress.com that he was ‘disheartened’ by the reactions, but said that the film’s teaser doesn’t do justice to its scale. Raut made his Hindi film directorial debut with Tanhaji (2020), which revolves around the life and exploits of the 17th century Maratha warrior Tanaji Malusare. The Ajay Devgn-starrer recently received the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, Best Actor (for Devgn) and Best Costume Design at the 68th National Film Awards.

(With inputs by Alaka Sahani)