A political controversy has erupted over filmmaker Neeraj Pandey’s upcoming film Ghooskhor Pandat. Soon after Netflix announced around 20 new films and series, including this project, protests began in different parts of the country. In Uttar Pradesh, orders have been given to file an FIR against the film.

The controversy is mainly over the film’s title. Members of the Pandit and Brahmin communities have taken to the streets, demanding either a change in the title or a complete ban on the film’s release. Director Neeraj Pandey had earlier reacted to the issue, and now lead actor Manoj Bajpayee has also responded.

Manoj Bajpayee shared a statement on social media saying, “I understand all the sentiments and concerns that people are expressing. I take them seriously. When something you are involved in hurts some people, one stops and listens carefully. As an actor, I only come into the film through my character and the story. For me, this character was of a flawed human being who gradually understands himself and becomes better.”

He also supported the filmmakers, stating that the intention was not to comment on any community. According to him, Neeraj Pandey makes films with seriousness and care. The makers have removed all promotional material, including posters and videos, out of respect for people’s sentiments.

In Ghooskhor Pandat, Manoj Bajpayee plays the role of a corrupt policeman. The film also stars Nushrratt Bharuccha, Saqib Saleem, Akshay Oberoi, and Kiku Sharda, and is scheduled to release on Netflix this year.