Director Anurag Kashyap Apologizes for Remarks on Brahmin Community
Mumbai: A controversy erupted on social media following filmmaker Anurag Kashyap’s recent remarks about the Brahmin community in connection with his upcoming film Phule. The comments sparked backlash, with many demanding action against him. Reportedly, Kashyap and his family also received threats. Now, the filmmaker has issued an apology through a lengthy post on his official Instagram account.
Anurag Kashyap clarified, “This apology is not for the entire post, but for one specific line. That line was taken out of context and used to spread hate. No matter how clear my opinion might be, if it puts my daughter’s safety at risk, then that opinion means nothing to me.”
He further added, “I stand by my statement, but if my family is suffering because of me, then I ask for forgiveness. Blame me, scold me, but please don’t trouble my family. If what you want is an apology, then I apologize. All I expect from those who preach purity and religion is to also show respect towards women.”
The Controversial Statement
The controversy began when Anurag Kashyap wrote a post referencing his film Phule, centered around social reformers Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule. He stated:
“During the screening of Dhadak 2, the censor board claimed that Modi has eradicated the caste system. On similar grounds, Santosh’s film wasn’t released in India. Now, the Brahmin community is objecting to the film Phule. But if the caste system has been abolished, where did the Brahmins come from? Who are you? Why are you offended?”
“If the caste system didn’t exist, would Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule have been necessary? According to Modi, there’s no caste system in India — so logically, there should be no Brahmins. Or is everyone just fooling each other? First, decide collectively whether caste still exists in India or not. People are not fools. Are you a Brahmin or were your ancestors Brahmins who no longer exist… what will you decide?”
These comments triggered anger among many, who saw them as disrespectful toward the Brahmin community. However, now that Kashyap has offered a public apology, the controversy may be considered settled — at least for now.