Netflix has removed the Nayanthara-starrer film “Annapoorani” from its platform following complaints that it offended religious sentiments. The decision was made in response to a request from the film’s licensor, as stated by the streaming service.
Since its debut on Netflix on December 29, the movie has been met with protests and police complaints, with allegations that it contained “controversial” remarks about Lord Ram and allegedly promoted “love jihad.”
The storyline revolves around Annapoorani, played by Nayanthara, a woman from a conservative background aspiring to become India’s top chef. The character faces various challenges, including cooking and consuming meat, with the support of her friend Farhan, portrayed by Jai.
In response to the backlash, the film’s co-producers, Zee Studios, issued an apology, promising to remove the controversial scenes and release an edited version. Zee Studios expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to the sentiments of Hindus and Brahmin communities.
An FIR has been registered against Nayanthara and others involved in the film in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, based on a complaint by Hindu Sewa Parishad. A separate complaint was filed in Mumbai by Ramesh Solanki, founder of the Hindu IT Cell, alleging that the film demeaned Lord Ram and intentionally hurt Hindu sentiments.
Solanki’s complaint pointed out specific scenes, including one where the daughter of a temple priest offers namaz wearing a hijab before making biryani, and another where the character Farhan suggests that Lord Ram and Maa Sita consumed meat, allegedly promoting “love jihad.”
The Mumbai Police have not yet registered an FIR, awaiting Solanki’s statement. The complainant has called for stricter laws protecting the sentiments of all religions and has urged the censor board to intervene.
The FIR in Jabalpur, registered under IPC sections 153A and 34, accuses the movie of insulting Sanatan Dharma and promoting “love jihad.” The seven accused include Nayanthara, director Nilesh Krishnaa, producers Jatin Sethi and R Ravindran, and Netflix India’s content head Monika Shergill.
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