Anurag Kashyap Issues Apology After Brahmin Remark Sparks Backlash Amid ‘Phule’ Row
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap on Friday night issued a public apology after facing severe criticism for a controversial comment directed at the Brahmin community amid the ongoing ‘Phule’ controversy.
Anurag Kashyap, known for his outspoken views, drew outrage after replying to a social media user with a crude statement: “Brahmin pe main mootoonga… koi problem?” (I will urinate on Brahmins… any problem?). The remark, made in response to online criticism, triggered widespread condemnation and threats directed at the filmmaker and his family.
Kashyap later took to Instagram to clarify and apologise. “This is my apology, not for my post, but for that one line taken out of context and the brewing hatred,” he wrote. He emphasized that no speech or action is worth risking the safety of one’s family, adding, “If you want to abuse someone, direct it at me.”
In the detailed post, Kashyap stated: “So, if it’s an apology you’re looking for, then this is my apology. Brahmins, please spare the women — even the scriptures teach this much decency, not just Manusmriti. Decide for yourselves what kind of Brahmins you truly are.”
He maintained that while he would not take back his political stance or criticism of caste structures, he regretted the personal toll it was taking on his family, especially after receiving rape and death threats.
The controversy arose amid delays in the release of Phule, a biopic starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa. The film traces the legacy of Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule, pioneers of anti-caste and women’s rights movements in 19th-century India.
Originally scheduled for release on April 11, the film faced objections from groups including the Akhil Bhartiya Brahmin Samaj and Parshuram Aarthik Vikas Mahamandal. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) suggested changes, which were accepted by the filmmakers.
Producers decided to postpone the release by two weeks to facilitate dialogue and clear misconceptions about the film’s content. Phule will now release on April 25.
Kashyap has been vocal about the increasing influence of political ideology on censorship. Referring to previous instances where films such as Punjab 95, Tees, and Dhadak 2 faced blocks, he called the system “rigged.”
His fiery response came after a user on social media claimed, “Brahmins tumhare baap hain…” (Brahmins are your fathers), to which Kashyap responded with the now-viral comment.
The apology has somewhat softened the blow, but social media reactions remain polarized. While some accepted his clarification, others demanded a formal legal complaint.
