The upcoming film ‘Udaipur Files’, based on the 2022 murder of tailor Kanhaiyalal Sahu, has triggered controversy ahead of its release. The filmmakers claim they are getting death threats and abusive messages on social media, while several Muslim organisations have approached courts seeking a ban on the film.
The movie, set to hit theatres on July 11, tries to portray the events and background of Kanhaiyalal Sahu’s brutal killing, which happened in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The murder sparked nationwide outrage at the time, and now the film has revived public interest in the case.
Multiple Legal Petitions Filed Against Film in Various Courts
Two prominent organisations, Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind and All India Milli Council, have filed petitions in Delhi, Mumbai, and Gujarat High Courts, asking for a stay on the film’s release. They argue that the film may disturb communal harmony and could be misused to create tension between communities.
At the same time, the makers insist that the film does not target any religion or community. Instead, they claim the movie aims to expose radical thinking and acts of terrorism, not a particular faith.
Director Says Film Passed Censor Board With 130 Cuts
Director Bharat S. Srinet shared that the censor board reviewed the film for two months and finally gave it an ‘A’ certificate after applying 130 cuts. He said that while the film includes a scene related to Prophet Muhammad, it does not contain anything disrespectful or offensive.
Srinet added that the movie simply tells the story of how and why Kanhaiyalal Sahu was killed. He insisted the film avoids hate and focuses only on terror ideology, not religious identity.
Support from Kanhaiyalal’s Family and Bageshwar Baba
Kanhaiyalal’s son Yash Sahu recently joined spiritual leader Bageshwar Baba on stage in Patna, where both spoke in support of the film. Yash said many Indians are still unaware of the full truth behind his father’s killing. He believes the movie is a way to bring out that truth.
He also stated that his family has not received full justice yet, and this film could push the public and authorities to remember what happened.
Filmmakers Claim Online Trolls Are Targeting Them
Producer Amit Jani said that apart from legal challenges, they are also facing online abuse. He accused “troll armies” of sending them threats of violence, including death threats and disturbing images. He urged authorities to provide protection and support for freedom of creative expression.
About the Case
The murder case dates back to June 2022, when two men entered Kanhaiyalal Sahu’s tailoring shop in Udaipur and killed him in broad daylight. The attackers recorded the murder on camera and uploaded it online, calling it revenge for a social media post made by Kanhaiyalal. The act was widely condemned across the country, with protests and debates on rising radicalism.
Now, the release of ‘Udaipur Files’ has brought the case back into the spotlight.
Disclaimer: This article is based on public reports. Viewer discretion is advised due to the sensitive nature of the topic. Legal action or court orders may impact the film’s release.
