The upcoming Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat, starring acclaimed actor Manoj Bajpayee, has ignited a significant controversy across social media platforms following the release of its teaser on February 3. The Neeraj Pandey-backed cop thriller, which features an ensemble cast including Nushrratt Bharuccha, Divya Dutta, Saqib Saleem, Akshay Oberoi, Shraddha Das, and Kiku Sharda in pivotal roles, has found itself at the center of a heated debate regarding its title.
Social Media Erupts Over Alleged Casteist Title
Netizens have expressed strong disapproval of the film's title, with many labeling it as casteist and offensive. The controversy erupted almost immediately after the trailer launch, as the title Ghooskhor Pandat triggered a fierce backlash online. Manoj Bajpayee portrays a morally compromised police officer entangled in corruption and conspiracy, but the focus has shifted to the perceived targeting of a specific community through the film's name.
Outrage and Calls for Boycott
Social media users have been vocal in their criticism, with numerous comments demanding an immediate change to the title. One user questioned the platform's approach, stating, "The name of this movie is highly objectionable. Can Netflix name a movie as 'Ghooskhor Dalit' or 'Ghooskhor Muslim'? Change it ASAP!" This sentiment was echoed by others who threatened legal action and mass boycotts.
Another comment read, "Hello @NetflixIndia, normalisation of hatred against Pandits & Brahmins won't be tolerated. I'll see you in court." Users accused the filmmakers and Netflix of pushing a specific agenda, with one remarking, "Aren't you making a casteist slur through this title! Are you pushing some kind of agenda against Brahmins? Itching for a court case or a boycott."
Demands for Title Change Intensify
The backlash has been widespread, with many users drawing parallels to other communities to highlight their concerns. A user pointedly asked, "Hello @NetflixIndia, you have given the name Ghooskhor Pandit. Do you have the guts to put 'Ghooskhor Muslim' in any of your web series? Remove this title or be ready to face a mass boycott of Netflix." Others criticized the choice of title as deliberate, with one stating, "They could have named this show anything, but they specifically chose this to set a narrative. How is this okay? Maybe we should start boycotting them to teach them a lesson."
As of now, neither Netflix nor the production team behind Ghooskhor Pandat has issued an official response to address the growing controversy and the demands for a title change.
About the Film Ghooskhor Pandat
Directed by Ritesh Shah, Ghooskhor Pandat is set in Delhi and follows the story of a corrupt police officer named Ajay Dikshit, who is nicknamed Pandat. The narrative revolves around his plans to make quick money, which are thrown into jeopardy when he becomes entangled in a global conspiracy. The plot further explores Pandat's attempts to uncover the identity of a critically injured young woman, adding layers of mystery and suspense to the thriller.
The film promises to be a gripping cop drama, but the ongoing title controversy has overshadowed its promotional efforts, raising questions about cultural sensitivity and representation in mainstream entertainment.
