Will the Delhi High Court Halt the Release of ‘The Taj Story’?
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Synopsis
The Delhi High Court is poised to hear two public interest litigations challenging the film ‘The Taj Story’. Advocates argue that the film misrepresents historical facts and could disturb communal harmony, urging the court to intervene before its planned release on October 31. Will justice prevail in this high-stakes case?
Key Takeaways
- Delhi High Court to hear PILs against ‘The Taj Story’.
- Concerns over historical accuracy and communal harmony.
- Petitioners seek re-evaluation of film's certification.
- Film set for release on October 31, 2025.
- Respondents include CBFC and film's key personnel.
New Delhi, Oct 29 (NationPress) The Delhi High Court is set to hear two public interest litigations (PILs) on Thursday that challenge the release of the forthcoming film ‘The Taj Story’. According to the causelist available on the Delhi High Court’s official portal, this matter is scheduled to be reviewed by a Bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela on October 30.
The litigations, filed by advocate Shakeel Abbas, urge judicial intervention against the film’s scheduled release on October 31, arguing that it misrepresents historical truths concerning the Taj Mahal and may disrupt communal harmony.
The petition names several respondents, including the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), as well as the film’s producer, director Tushar Amrish Goel, writer Saurabh M. Pandey, and actor Paresh Rawal.
The PIL contends that the film disseminates fabricated and misleading narratives regarding the origins of the Taj Mahal and aims to foster divisive, politically motivated historical interpretations.
Previously, the Delhi High Court declined to expedite the hearing; however, after a subsequent request was made to Chief Justice Upadhyaya during the post-lunch session, the case has been scheduled for Thursday.
The petitioner asserts that ‘The Taj Story’ incorporates speculative claims based on debunked theories, including visuals depicting the Taj Mahal’s dome as revealing a figure of Lord Shiva — imagery that has sparked substantial public discourse and criticism.
The plea requests directives for the CBFC to reassess the film’s certification, mandate the inclusion of a prominent disclaimer indicating that the work is fictional, and take necessary precautions to prevent any public disorder.
The film, produced by Swarnim Global Services Pvt Ltd and supported by Zee Music Company, is expected to be released nationwide on October 31, 2025.
Point of View
It is crucial to uphold artistic freedom while also ensuring that historical integrity is maintained. The balance between creative expression and factual representation is delicate, especially in narratives that could influence public sentiment. The National Editor-in-Chief emphasizes the importance of responsible storytelling in cinema.
NationPress
31/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main concerns regarding 'The Taj Story'?
The primary concerns revolve around allegations of the film distorting historical facts related to the Taj Mahal and potentially inciting communal disharmony.
Who filed the public interest litigations against the film?
The PILs were filed by advocate Shakeel Abbas, representing concerns over the film's historical accuracy and its impact on social harmony.
When is the film 'The Taj Story' scheduled for release?
The film is slated for a nationwide release on October 31, 2025.
What actions are being requested from the court?
The petitioners are seeking the court's direction for the CBFC to re-evaluate the film's certification and ensure it includes a disclaimer that it is a work of fiction.
Which authorities are named as respondents in the PILs?
The PILs name the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the CBFC, and key figures associated with the film as respondents.
