A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Delhi High Court against the upcoming film The Taj Story, starring veteran actor Paresh Rawal, alleging that the film distorts historical facts and promotes a fabricated and provocative narrative regarding the origins of the Taj Mahal.
The petition, moved by Advocate Shakeel Abbas, contends that the film’s poster, which depicts a statue of Lord Shiva emerging from the dome of the Taj Mahal, rekindles a fringe theory claiming the monument was once a Hindu temple. The plea states that such imagery and assertions “are contrary to established historical records and scholarly consensus.”
Allegations and Concerns Raised in the PIL
According to the plea, the film’s speculative portrayal could undermine historical scholarship, inflame communal tensions, and damage the international reputation of the Taj Mahal, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“That the movie contains deeply divisive and communal scenes which could disturb peace and public order, and that it amplifies controversial statements made by political and Hindutva leaders, thereby risking communal disharmony,”
the petition asserts.
The petitioner has sought a direction to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to review or revoke the certification granted to the movie or make necessary deletions to safeguard communal harmony.
Additionally, the PIL demands that the film carry a clear disclaimer, informing audiences that it is a fictionalized interpretation dealing with a contested narrative about the Taj Mahal.
Context of the Controversy
The Taj Story is slated for release on October 31, 2025, but has courted significant controversy following the release of its poster. The visuals have sparked debate on social media, with many alleging an attempt to “rewrite” Mughal-era history through cinematic fiction.
Prayer Before the Court
The petitioner prays for judicial intervention to ensure that the film does not “distort historical truth or provoke sentiments detrimental to national unity.”
The plea invokes Article 19(2) of the Constitution, emphasizing the reasonable restriction on freedom of expression to prevent threats to public order and communal harmony.
Case Details
- Case Title: Advocate Shakeel Abbas v. Union of India & Anr.
- Relief Sought: Direction to CBFC to re-examine certification and ensure disclaimer inclusion.
- Court: Delhi High Court
- Likely Bench: Expected to be listed before a Division Bench led by Justice [Name Placeholder] and Justice [Name Placeholder].
- Next Hearing: To be notified upon listing.
The PIL against The Taj Story raises critical questions about artistic freedom vis-à-vis communal sensitivity and the responsibility of filmmakers while representing historical monuments.
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