Maharaj Controversy: “Ban Maharaj”, “Boycott Netflix” Trends For ‘Anti-Hindu’ Content

On Thursday, hashtags such as ‘Ban Maharaj Film’ gained traction on social media, with some users urging for a boycott of the period drama “Maharaj,” alleging it offends religious sentiments. The film, set to debut on Netflix the following day, introduces Bollywood star Aamir Khan’s son, Junaid Khan.

As per its creators, “Maharaj” is set during pre-independent India and centers around the Maharaj Libel Case of 1862, sparked by accusations of misconduct against a notable figure. Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra and produced by Aditya Chopra for YRF Entertainment, the film features Jaideep Ahlawat in a significant role.

According to a recent Netflix press release, “Maharaj” delves into the life of Karsandas Mulji, portrayed by Junaid Khan, a journalist who pioneered women’s rights and social reform. Mentored by Dadabhai Naoroji and educated at Mumbai’s Elphinstone College, Mulji advocated for widow remarriage and challenged societal norms, making significant contributions to social change.

Now, social media users have accused the film of being “Hinduphobic” and “anti-Hindu,” sparking trends like #BanMaharaj and #BoycottNetflix. Sharing the same a user tweeted, “Why was religion introduced into a film made on food a few months ago ?? And now the insult to Hindu saints, how long will this continue? Ban “”Maharaj”” Film..”.

Another wrote, “Netflix is back with Anti-Hindu Content. Amir Khan launches his son by throwing dirt on Sanatan Dharma. The Film shows Hindu Sadhus as miscreant and lustful. Will Amir Khan make such movie on Islam and Maulana? It’s time Hindus Boycott@NetflixIndia”. Check out their reactions.

Why was religion introduced into a film made on food a few months ago ??
And now the insult to Hindu saints, how long will this continue?
Ban ""Maharaj"" Film..‼️‼️#BoycottNetflix pic.twitter.com/eVzXJhrVzO

— Anushka (@Anu_shka05) June 13, 2024

#BoycottNetflix pic.twitter.com/GpdqFFfPB7

— Expose Point (@Expose_point_09) June 13, 2024

Another hinduphobic movie in making#BoycottNetflix pic.twitter.com/FrFxXCy3g7

— m. (@Rashmalaii) June 13, 2024

Netflix is back with Anti-Hindu Content.

Amir Khan launches his son by throwing dirt on Sanatan Dharma.

The Film shows Hindu Sadhus as miscreant and lustful. Will Amir Khan make such movie on Islam and Maulana?

It's time Hindus Boycott @NetflixIndia#BoycottNetflix pic.twitter.com/7QJcujouU0

— The Jaipur Dialogues (@JaipurDialogues) June 13, 2024

🚫 Netflix done it again,
Web Series called "Krishna & His Leela" showing Krishna have sexual affairs wth many women & one of them named as Radha. The audacity to openly target Hinduism wth lies, deceit, propaganda. Why always insult our Gods ❓
"Ban Maharaj Film" #BoycottNetflix pic.twitter.com/2FTGwwewll

— 🇮🇳 Prabhakar Acharya 🇮🇳 🚩 (@Prabhak41657341) June 13, 2024

ALSO READ: ‘No Trailer Or Teaser’, Why Is Junaid Khan’s Debut Film “Maharaj” Releasing Without Publicity?