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Manoj Bajpayee Addresses 'Ghooskhor Pandat' Title Controversy, Says It's 'Not About Any Community'

Actor Manoj Bajpayee has responded to the controversy surrounding the title of his upcoming Netflix series "Ghooskhor Pandat," asserting that the project is not a commentary on any specific community. He expressed respect for the hurt sentiments and explained his role focuses on portraying a flawed character's personal journey. The makers have taken down promotional material in light of public outcry, and an FIR has been filed against the team in Lucknow. Director Neeraj Pandey had previously apologized, clarifying the title refers to a fictional character and not any caste or community.

Key Points: Manoj Bajpayee on Ghooskhor Pandat Title Controversy

  • Bajpayee addresses title controversy
  • Says series is about a flawed individual's journey
  • Promotional material taken down amid concerns
  • FIR filed against makers in Lucknow
2 min read

Manoj Bajpayee says Ghooskhor Pandat is 'not about any community' amid title controversy

Actor Manoj Bajpayee clarifies that his Netflix series 'Ghooskhor Pandat' portrays a flawed individual, not a community, amid protests and an FIR.

"This was not meant to be a statement about any community. - Manoj Bajpayee"

Mumbai, Feb 6

After filmmaker Neeraj Pandey, actor Manoj Bajpayee has also reacted to the ongoing controversy regarding the name of their forthcoming Netflix drama, "Ghooskhor Pandat".

In a statement shared on his official Instagram Stories, Bajpayee assured that he takes the emotions of the people hurt by the title of his next very seriously; however, he added that through his character, he only wished to depict the journey of a flawed person, and it should not be taken as a remark on any community in particular.

He wrote on the photo-sharing app, "I respect the emotions and concerns people have shared, and I take them seriously. When something you are part of causes hurt to some people, it makes you pause and listen. As an actor, I come to a film through the character and the story I am playing. For me, this was about portraying a flawed individual and his journey of self realisation. This was not meant to be a statement about any community. (sic)."

Bajpayee further shed light on Neeraj Panday's approach towards his projects, saying, "In my experience of working with Neeraj Panday, there has been a consistent seriousness and care in how he approaches his films."

He also pointed out that the decision by the makers to take down the promotional material of the drama, in light of the public sentiment, shows the seriousness with which they are taking these concerns.

An FIR has been filed against the film director and team of the forthcoming web series "Ghooskhor Pandat" at Hazratganj police station, Lucknow.

Some organisations have even warned of aggressive protests, claiming that the title "Ghooskhor Pandat" is defamatory to the Brahmin community.

Earlier, Neeraj Pandey also shared a social media post clarifying that the term "Pandat" is used as a colloquial name for a fictional character, and it does not represent any particular caste, religion, or community.

He also apologised for any 'hurt' caused due to the title.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Honestly, this controversy feels unnecessary. 'Pandat' is a common colloquial term in many parts of North India, not exclusively for Brahmins. If the story is about a flawed individual's journey, that's a human story, not a community-specific one. People are too quick to get offended these days. 🤦‍♂️
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Aditya G
While I appreciate the apology, the initial oversight is concerning. In the age of social media, filmmakers should do better homework. A simple sensitivity check could have avoided this whole mess. That said, filing an FIR seems like an overreaction. Let's have a dialogue, not legal threats.
S
Sarah B
As someone who loves Indian cinema, it's disappointing to see talented artists like Bajpayee and Pandey having to defend their work before it's even released. The story sounds interesting—a flawed character's self-realization. Can we please judge the content and not just the title?
K
Karthik V
The reaction shows how words carry weight in our society. Even if unintended, the hurt is real for some. Respect to Manoj sir for addressing it seriously. Hope this leads to more thoughtful naming in the future. Jai Hind.
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Nisha Z
Neeraj Pandey makes quality content. From 'A Wednesday' to 'Special Ops', his track record is solid. If he and Bajpayee are involved, I'm watching it. The aggressive protest warnings are not the solution. Let art be art.

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