In a recent turn of events, Bollywood actress Nayanthara finds herself entangled in a legal controversy surrounding her latest film, 'Annapoorani: The Goddess of Food.' Zee Studios, the production company behind the film, has issued a public apology, and Netflix has removed the movie from its platform following accusations of disrespecting Hindu sentiments, particularly those related to Lord Ram.
The Hindu Seva Parishad has lodged an FIR against Nayanthara, accusing her of hurting religious sentiments by insulting Lord Ram in the movie. The complaint, registered in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, alleges that the film contains several scenes that disrespect the revered deity. Atul Jeswani, representing the organization, claims that the sentiments of Hindus have been hurt due to inappropriate comments against Lord Shri Ram.
Jeswani goes on to state that the film depicts 'love jihad' and is labelled as anti-Hindu. He further mentions a scene where an artist in the movie suggests that Lord Rama consumed meat during his exile, which adds fuel to the controversy.
The Madhya Pradesh police have registered the case against Nayanthara, director Nilesh Krishna, and the producers of the movie under relevant sections. This legal action comes in the wake of another FIR filed by Ramesh Solanki in Mumbai, who accused the film of promoting 'Love Jihad.' Solanki expressed his concerns in a statement on social media, citing scenes that he found offensive to the Hindu community.
ALSO READ: SRK's Dunki & Vikrant's 12th Fail are Being Considered for Oscars 2024
The movie, which had a theatrical release on December 1, 2023, later became available on Netflix. However, amidst the growing controversy, Netflix has removed the film from its platform. Zee Studios has also issued a public apology, asserting that the movie was not intended to hurt Hindu sentiments and Brahmins. The production house clarified that the film will not return to Netflix until the controversial scenes are edited out.
“In relation to the same, we are in the process of coordinating with our co-producers rident Arts to undertake requisite actions to address your concerns in relation to the said Film and also with Netflix to immediately remove the Film from their platform until edited”, the letter read.
'Annapoorani: The Goddess of Food' features Nayanthara in the lead role of an aspiring chef, directed by Nilesh Krishna. The film explores the challenges faced by Annapoorani in pursuing her culinary dreams. As the controversy intensifies, it raises questions about artistic expression, religious sentiments, and the responsibilities of filmmakers in navigating sensitive subjects.
ALSO READ:
Bollywood Stars & Their Relationship Policies: From Never Dating Actors to Breaking the Norms