Junaid Khan’s Debut Film ‘Maharaj’ on Netflix Sparks Controversy; Hindu Organization Calls for Ban Alleging Misrepresentation of Saints

Aamir Khan is an actor who is often involved in controversies for the wrong reasons. Earlier, he had drawn flak for his film PK, which showed him taking on the might of a Hindu saint, and this time he is in hot water due to his son Junaid Khan.

Junaid Khan will be making his acting debut with the film “Maharaj,” set to premiere exclusively on Netflix. The streaming behemoth recently announced the release of the film and also released its first teaser.

“Maharaj” revolves around the tussle between a power-drunk man and a fearless journalist and is based on real events.

The film is scheduled for release on 14 June, exclusively on Netflix.

The film is produced by Yash Raj Films and introduces Junaid Khan. It also features actors Jaideep Ahlawat, Sharvari Wagh, and Shalini Pandey.

The film is loosely based on the famous 1862 Maharaja Libel Case. The Maharaj Libel Case of 1862 is considered to be one of the most significant legal battles in India.

Junaid Khan will be portraying the character of Karsandas Mulji, a journalist and social reformer. He was a keen advocate of women’s rights and wanted to herald a social change for the upliftment of the socially deprived and underprivileged class.

Karsandas Mulji graduated from Elphinstone College in Mumbai, and his godfather was Dadabhai Naoroji, who was also very close to Mahatma Gandhi. He was best known for his revolutionary thoughts, which passionately advocated for widow remarriage and were instrumental in sparking societal reform. He also worked hard for the upliftment of the oppressed class.

Hindu Groups Call For Ban Of Junaid Khan’s Debut Film ‘Maharaj’

However, the film has earned the ire of a Hindu organization, which has alleged that the film portrays Hindus in a bad light. What has irked them most is the depiction of the leader of the Vallabha sect as a sex maniac.

The right-wing Hindu organization has become vociferous in their protests, especially after the elections. The organization is calling for a ban on the film and organizing a social media campaign with the hashtag ‘Boycott Netflix.’ The film teasers or the trailer have not been released, and first rushes have already caused a huge controversy.

Netizens are using social media to vent their anger on the film.

A user wrote, “Junaid Khan, Yash Raj Films, and #Netflix will all be held responsible if this film tries to hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus by showing that sadhus and saints are miscreants and lustful, and thereby disrupts law and order. #BoycottNetflix Ban Maharaj Film.”

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