Maharaj Director Reacts After Film Releases On OTT Post Controversy

Director Siddharth P. Malhotra recently shared an emotional note on social media about the release of his film Maharaj on OTT platforms. He also emphasised the importance of telling its story despite various challenges.

Siddharth Malhotra on Maharaj release

On June 21, Siddharth Malhotra took to Instagram to express how the release of Maharaj on Netflix felt akin to "the arrival of a child for a filmmaker." Posting the film's poster, he wrote, "The labour of love would like to be celebrated and announced with elan. But when you choose to tell a story that must be told against all odds, then the battle will be uphill but hopefully worth the pain and obstacles as we as a team are super proud of the film 'Maharaj' that we have made."

He continued, "Today finally marks the release of my film as a director post-Hichki - it marks the debut of Aamir Khan Sir's son Junaid, with Jaideep Ahlawat in and as Maharaj, alongside two wonderful ladies, Shalini Pandey and Sharvari. Supported by some mind-blowing actors who are masters in their craft. The film is finally live."

Maharaj director praises the film's team

Siddharth Malhotra praised the film's crew and expressed his gratitude to YRF for giving him the opportunity to bring this story to life.

On Friday, YRF released a statement after the Gujarat High Court lifted its stay on the film’s release. The court ruled that the film, which is based on the events surrounding the 1862 Maharaj Libel Case, was not intended to offend any community.

Justice Sangeeta K. Vishen, who had initially barred the film's release on June 13, allowed Netflix to stream it after reviewing the movie. Maharaj features Junaid Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Sharvari Wagh in key roles.

The film, originally scheduled for release on June 14, faced a temporary hold when the High Court barred Netflix from streaming it. This decision followed a petition by a group of businessmen who argued that the film could potentially offend the religious sentiments of the Vaishnav community.