The Gujarat High Court has lifted its temporary stay on the release of the film ‘Maharaj’ on Netflix, stating that the movie does not hurt any community’s sentiments. The court, led by Justice Sangeeta K Vishen, concluded that the film is based on the 1862 Maharaj Libel Case and does not target the sentiments of the Pushtimargi community. The film, which marks the debut of Aamir Khan’s son Junaid Khan, was initially slated for release on June 14 but was put on hold due to a court stay. The court’s decision was based on its viewing of the film, which it found did not contain anything objectionable that would hurt religious feelings.
Background of the Case
The film ‘Maharaj‘ is based on a 2013 book by Gujarati author Saurabh Shah about the 1862 libel case filed by a leading Vaishnavite figure, Jadunathji, against social reformer Karsandas Mulji who had written against sexual exploitation by the powerful Maharaj. The case was dismissed, and the film’s storyline revolves around the social evil and the fight against it by Karsandas Mulji, who was from the Vaishnavite community.
Court’s Decision
Justice Vishen, who had initially barred the release of the movie on June 13, decided to let Netflix stream the movie after watching it. She stated that the film does not contain anything that would hurt the religious feelings of the petitioners or any sect. The core message of the film, as contended by the respondents, focuses on the social evil and the fight against it by Karsandas Mulji, who was from the Vaishnavite community. The film concludes that the sect is far more important than any individual or incident, and the Vaishnav sect continued to grow and remain a proud and integral part of the social, cultural, and religious fabric of India.
Conclusion
The Gujarat High Court’s decision to lift the stay on the release of ‘Maharaj’ is a significant victory for the film’s producers and the freedom of expression. The court’s conclusion that the film does not contain anything objectionable that would hurt religious feelings is a testament to the film’s responsible portrayal of a significant historical event. The film’s release on Netflix is now expected to proceed as planned, allowing audiences to enjoy the debut of Junaid Khan and the story of the Maharaj Libel Case.
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