Content Modifications: Filmmakers agree to remove objectionable dialogue and Quranic verse, add disclaimers
Mumbai, June 19, 2024 – The Bombay High Court has granted permission for the release of the film 'Hamare Baarah' on June 21, 2024, following the filmmakers' agreement to make specific alterations. The court's decision comes after objections from the Muslim community led to a legal dispute and a temporary stay on the movie.
The court imposed a Rs 5 lakh fine on the filmmakers for releasing a trailer with uncertified scenes, mandating that the fine be donated to a charity chosen by the petitioners. The division bench, comprising Justice BP Colabawalla and Justice Firdosh Pooniwalla, ruled that the film does not contain any content objectionable to the Quran, the Muslim community, or women, nor does it depict violence.
In their ruling, the justices noted that 'Hamare Baarah' is intended for the upliftment of women. However, they acknowledged that the trailer was objectionable and penalized the filmmakers for releasing it without certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The filmmakers have since removed the contentious content and scenes, including a dialogue and a Quranic verse, and agreed to include two 12-second disclaimers in the film.
Annu Kapoor's film had faced significant backlash, prompting the legal intervention. With the court's clearance and the required changes, the stay order has been lifted, allowing the film to proceed to its scheduled release.
Reactions on social media have been mixed, with some questioning why similar controversies are handled differently for other films. However, the court's decision underscores its commitment to ensuring that films adhere to legal and ethical standards while respecting community sentiments.
