The Telangana State Anti-Narcotic Bureau (TSNAB) has directed the makers of the upcoming Telugu movie ‘Ganja Shankar’ to change its title by omitting Ganja (cannabis) from it. The TSNAB has warned the actor, producer, and director of the film that legal action will be initiated under the NDPS Act if any objectionable scenes related to Ganja/narcotics are included. The bureau believes that the film’s title and scenes in the trailer seem to be glorifying drug consumption and sales, potentially violating the NDPS Act.
The TSNAB Director Sandeep Shandilya issued notices to actor Sai Dharam Tej, producer S. Nagavamshi, and director Sampath Nandi. The bureau is concerned that the movie ‘Ganja Shankar’ may be inciting or abetting the crime of narcotics consumption, inviting penal consequences to the movie makers.
The actor and makers have been instructed to refrain from depicting any scenes that glorify the consumption, sale, peddling, and supply of narcotic Ganja. TSNAB emphasized the deleterious effects of such practices, especially on the young generation.
The notice refers to the protagonist’s involvement in Ganja business and highlights the violation of Section 8 of the NDPS Act, which prohibits the cultivation of cannabis plants. The TSNAB Director emphasized that the government of Telangana is taking steps to curb the menace of drugs, especially among students and youth. The portrayal of the protagonist as a Ganja businessman and the title ‘Ganja Shankar’ have raised concerns about the negative impact on viewers, particularly students and youth.
The TSNAB’s intervention in the movie’s title and content reflects the government’s efforts to curb drug-related activities, particularly those that may have a negative influence on the younger generation. The bureau’s directive serves as a reminder to filmmakers to consider the social and legal implications of their creative choices, especially when dealing with sensitive subjects such as drug consumption and trafficking.
The TSNAB’s notice to the makers of ‘Ganja Shankar’ underscores the importance of responsible storytelling and the need to address societal concerns while creating artistic content. It also highlights the ongoing efforts to combat drug-related issues in the state, emphasizing the role of both the government and the entertainment industry in safeguarding the well-being of the public, particularly the youth.
