Acclaimed director Neeraj Pandey has responded to the criticism surrounding the provocative title of ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’ by stressing that it is purely a feature piece focusing on a police narrative. He clarified that the term is an informal descriptor for a particular character and is not intended to offend any group. Read on.
“Ghooskhor Pandat” Teaser Starring Manoj Bajpayee in the title character was recently released at an event. The film quickly began to be discussed not because of its content, but because of its title.
Netizens criticized the use of the word “Pandat” in the title, saying it associated a certain caste with corruption and bribery.
Now, after the backlash, the film director Neeraj Pandey issued an official statement on this matter. He clarified that the name is not meant to harm any community or caste.
Neeraj Panday’s official statement on the ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’ title controversy.
Neeraj Pandey took to his social media accounts to share that Gushor Pandat is a fictional character and the title was not aimed at any caste or community.
He wrote, “Our film is a fictional police drama and the term Pandat is used simply as a colloquial name for a fictional character. The story focuses on the actions and choices of an individual and does not comment on or represent any caste, religion or community.
“Then the director said that he always approaches his projects responsibly. His statement went on to say, “As a director, I approach my work with a deep sense of responsibility to tell stories that are thoughtful and respectful.
This film, like my previous works, was created with a sincere intention and solely to entertain the audience.”Pandey added that all promotional materials of the film will be removed temporarily and he is looking forward to sharing the film with everyone soon. The post read: “We understand that the title of the film has hurt some viewers and we sincerely acknowledge those feelings. In light of these concerns, we have decided to remove all promotional material for the time being, as we believe the film should be seen in its entirety and understood in the context of the story we set out to tell, rather than judged in part.
I look forward to sharing the film with the audience soon.”
Dispute over the name “Ghooskhor Pandat”.
The title caused a backlash online as soon as it was announced. Mumbai-based lawyer Ashutosh Dhabi has sent a formal notice to Netflix and the makers of the film, demanding that the title be removed immediately.Another advocate, Vineet Jindal, filed a petition against the film’s title in the Delhi High Court. In Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, an FIR was filed against the film due to the alleged “caste insult” in the film’s title.
More about ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’
Directed by Ritesh Shah, the film stars Manoj Bajpayee, Nushrrat Bharucha, Saqib Saleem, Akshay Oberoi, Divya Dutta, Shraddha Das and Kiku Sharda. The streaming giant has not yet announced the premiere date of the film.
