Makers of “Adipurush” Issue Apology to Kathmandu Mayor for Controversial Dialogues, Request Ban to Be Lifted

The recently released film “Adipurush,” starring Prabhas, Kriti Sanon, and Saif Ali Khan, has found itself amidst controversy shortly after its release on June 16. Directed by Om Raut, the movie has faced criticism for its subpar visual effects (VFX) and contentious dialogues. The film’s troubles escalated when Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah banned its screening and other Indian films due to concerns over misrepresentation. In response, the makers of “Adipurush” have issued an apology to the mayor, seeking the revocation of the ban.

Apology to Kathmandu Mayor:

Following Balen Shah’s threat to ban Indian films in Kathmandu, citing an incorrect reference to Sita’s birthplace in “Adipurush,” the film’s creators chose not to make any alterations. In response to the ban, the makers extended an apology to the mayor in a letter. The letter conveyed their regret if the sentiments of the people of Nepal were hurt and emphasized that it was never their intention to cause disharmony. Furthermore, they clarified the intent behind Prabhas’ dialogue regarding Sita and emphasized their respect for women worldwide. The makers urged the mayor to view the film as an artistic representation and support their aim of generating interest in history among a wider audience.

Mayor’s Objections:

Balen Shah, in an earlier statement, expressed dissatisfaction with the film’s portrayal of Sita’s birthplace and labelled a particular dialogue as objectionable. He stressed the duty of the government, government agencies, non-governmental sectors, and Nepali citizens to safeguard the nation’s interests and preserve its freedom, independence, and self-respect. The mayor highlighted concerns about cultural encroachment and potential damage to Nepal’s nationality, cultural unity, and national identity as reasons for the ban on Indian films in Kathmandu until the contentious parts of “Adipurush” are rectified.

Controversial Dialogues and Cultural Sensitivity:

The controversy surrounding “Adipurush” revolves around dialogues that have been deemed culturally insensitive and misrepresentative. Specifically, the dialogue referring to Janaki as “India’s daughter” drew the mayor’s attention as he believed it distorted historical facts and posed a threat to Nepal’s national identity. Balen Shah argued that allowing the film to be shown without amendments would perpetuate misleading narratives and result in irreparable damage.

Request for Reconsideration:

In their apology letter, the makers of “Adipurush” expressed their desire for the mayor to revisit the film in its intended artistic form. They appealed for support in reaching a larger audience to foster an interest in history while assuring that their intentions were not to undermine Nepal’s culture or sentiments. With cultural sensitivity and respect for women as paramount values, the makers requested the lifting of the ban imposed on Indian films in Kathmandu.

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