Filmmaker Raj Pritam More challenges suspension of Khalid ka Shivaji in Bombay High Court after release was halted amid right-wing protests over alleged historical misrepresentation of Shivaji Maharaj.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
MUMBAI: National Award-winning filmmaker Raj Pritam More has approached the Bombay High Court challenging the suspension of the censor certificate for his Marathi film Khalid ka Shivaji. The suspension was ordered by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) on August 7, 2025, just a day before the scheduled release of the film, following protests alleging historical misrepresentation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
ALSO READ: Bombay High Court To Watch ‘Ajey: The Untold Story’ About UP CM Yogi To Resolve CBFC Ban
Background of the Case
The film, which tells the story of a young Muslim boy who, after facing religious bullying, learns about Shivaji Maharaj, was granted a CBFC certificate on November 12, 2024, after making suggested modifications. It was also selected for several international film festivals, including Cannes 2025, and had received official backing from the Maharashtra government.
However, the trailer’s release triggered protests by right-wing groups who objected to Shivaji Maharaj being portrayed as “secular” and to the depiction of a significant Muslim presence in his army. They claimed these portrayals were historically inaccurate.
On August 7, More received a notice under Section 6(2) of the Cinematograph Act, summoning him for a hearing with less than an hour’s notice. By evening, the MIB suspended the CBFC certificate for one month, citing concerns over public order and sentiments. The suspension order was later published in the official gazette on August 20, 2025.
Petitioner’s Arguments
In his petition, More contends that:
- The suspension is arbitrary, illegal, politically motivated, and violates his constitutional right to free speech under Article 19(1)(a).
- The process violated the principles of natural justice, as he was not given a meaningful opportunity to prepare and respond.
- The suspension order is vague, speculative, and unsupported by evidence. Even the Additional Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, present at the hearing, did not submit any reports justifying apprehensions of unrest.
- The order rests on mere apprehensions of public sentiment rather than any actual breach of law.
The petition seeks to quash the suspension order and allow the film’s release. Interim relief has also been sought to stay the suspension and prevent further interference with the film’s exhibition and distribution.
Court Proceedings
On August 22, 2025, a Division Bench of Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice Neela Gokhale refused to grant immediate relief to More. However, the Bench made important oral observations:
- No further extension of the suspension should be made without granting the filmmaker a proper hearing.
- The Ministry must inform and hear the petitioner at least a week in advance before considering any extension.
- Any representation made by the petitioner must be decided before the suspension period ends.
Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh, representing the MIB, assured the Court that the filmmaker would be given due opportunity before any further extension.
The Bombay High Court will hear the matter next on September 22, 2025.
Appearance:
For more: Senior Advocate Virendra Tulzapurkar
For the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting: Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh
For the State: Advocate General Birendra Saraf
Case Title:
Raj Pritam More vs CBFC &Ors.
Click Here to Read Our Reports on CBFC
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE FOR MORE LEGAL UPDATES
