MUMBAI – The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has intensified its stand against the makers of the upcoming Manoj Bajpayee-starrer, originally titled Ghooskhor Pandat. Despite a recent decision by the producers to change the film’s title following a legal battle in the Delhi High Court, the industry body remains unsatisfied, demanding a formal screening before the movie is cleared for release.
The Core of the Controversy
The dispute began when the film’s teaser and title were unveiled, sparking immediate outrage from various community groups and social organizations. Critics argued that the title—which translates to “Corrupt Pandit”—was a direct attack on the Brahmin community, linking a specific caste identity with criminal behavior and moral depravity.
In response to a petition filed in the Delhi High Court, the legal representatives of producer Neeraj Pandey and his production house, Friday Filmworks, informed the court that a “conscious decision” had been made to rename the project and remove all existing promotional assets featuring the old title.
“A Title Change is Not Enough”
While the court disposed of the petition following the title change, FWICE President BN Tiwari has made it clear that the federation’s concerns extend beyond just the name. Speaking to the press, Tiwari emphasized that the “sly attempt at sensationalizing” the film has already hurt public sentiments.
“It was sensible of the makers to change the title, but is that enough? Absolutely not,” Tiwari stated. “Whichever groups feel targeted should have the right to watch the film before it releases. This should serve as a lesson for filmmakers to be more sensitive toward caste and religion.”
Warning of “Non-Cooperation”
The FWICE has issued a stern ultimatum to the filmmakers. If a pre-release screening is not organized for the aggrieved stakeholders, the federation has threatened to issue a “non-cooperation” notice.
Such a move would effectively bar any member of the 36 affiliated associations—including technicians, workers, and artists—from working with Neeraj Pandey or lead actor Manoj Bajpayee on future projects.
The film, which features Bajpayee as a corrupt police officer seeking redemption, is slated for an OTT release. However, with the FWICE’s latest demand, the road to its premiere remains clouded by industry friction and social scrutiny.
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