Amidst a tumultuous journey, 'Adipurush' has found itself entangled in a web of criticism, protests, and bans, which have cast a shadow on its theatrical release. The epic saga, directed by Om Raut, has taken a dual path for its online release: while the movie can be accessed on Prime Video across four South Indian languages—Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada—the Hindi version finds its streaming home on Netflix.
Originally hitting theaters nationwide on June 16, 'Adipurush' introduces Prabhas as Raghav (Ram), Kriti Sanon as Janaki (Sita), and Saif Ali Khan as Lankesh (Raavan). Alongside the leading trio, the film boasts notable performances from Sunny Singh, Devdatta Nage, Vatsal Sheth, and Sonal Chauhan, as it embarks on an inventive retelling of the revered Ramayana.
However, the film has encountered a barrage of discontent, manifesting as critical backlash, public demonstrations, and outright bans, which have translated into a tangible Box Office decline.
Acknowledging the grievances, the filmmakers diligently revisited the contentious dialogues, aiming to align them with the narrative's core essence. They made a resolute commitment to upholding audience sentiments and fostering a sense of harmony.
Manoj Muntashir, an integral part of the project, earnestly acknowledged the audience's concerns. He elucidated that the primary motive behind 'Adipurush' was to acquaint the younger generation with the venerated heroes of Sanatan culture. Mindful of the objections raised against five particular dialogues, the creators opted to make modifications, deeming it their responsibility to address any elements that did not resonate well with the viewers.
The seers of Ayodhya have demanded an immediate prohibition on the film, highlighting provocative dialogues that have stirred emotions within the community. In Varanasi, a group of individuals took to the streets in protest, dismantling posters of the film. Similarly, a Hindu group expressed their discontent through a demonstration outside a theater in the sacred town of Mathura.
The Allahabad High Court, in an earlier instance, admonished the creators of 'Adipurush' for their portrayal of the characters from the Ramayana in what they deemed a "very shameful manner." A vacation bench of Justices Rajesh Singh Chauhan and Shree Prakash Singh presided over a hearing regarding the controversy, as part of a petition.
Amidst these trials, the cinematic endeavor of 'Adipurush' continues, navigating a complex web of sentiments and expectations.