Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has openly criticized the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) over the controversy surrounding Phule, a film based on the lives of legendary social reformers Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule. The Gangs of Wasseypur director took to Instagram to express his outrage, accusing the censor board and government of suppressing stories that challenge caste and social inequality.

Kashyap’s fiery reaction comes amid reports that Phule, directed by Ananth Mahadevan, is facing resistance from the CBFC due to its politically sensitive subject matter.

“Modiji Has Ended Caste System?” — Kashyap Slams Hypocrisy

In a strongly worded Instagram post, Kashyap recalled how, during the screening of another film, Dhadak 2, the CBFC allegedly said that casteism no longer exists in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, a claim he ridiculed.

“During the screening of Dhadak 2, the censor board said Modiji has ended casteism. On the same grounds, Santosh wasn’t allowed to be released. Now suddenly, Brahmins are objecting to Phule? If caste doesn’t exist, what are you objecting to? If there was no caste system, then why did the Phules exist at all?” Kashyap asked.

“Films That Tell the Truth Are Being Silenced”

Kashyap also posted an Instagram Story where he condemned the growing trend of censoring socially critical films. He listed Phule, Punjab 95, Tees, and Dhadak 2 as recent examples of films that were either delayed, altered, or blocked from release. He said that these films challenge the agendas of a government that’s too afraid to look in the mirror. Why are they uncomfortable with a film? He questioned.