Delhi High Court Refuses To Hear Plea Against Akshay Kumar Starrer 'Prithviraj'

The Delhi High Court on Monday refused to entertain a PIL seeking to change the title of the upcoming movie 'Prithviraj', produced by Yash Raj Films. The movie starring actors Akshay Kumar and Manushi Chillar in the lead roles is set to release on 10th June, 2022.

The petitioner, Rashtriya Pravasi Parishad, submitted that the film is based on the life of Indian Emperor Prithviraj Chauhan. Advocate Sanjeev Beniwal, appearing for the petitioner, contended that the film is based on a "great warrior". However, its name is not reflective of the same.

It was argued that by putting a simple title 'Prithiviraj', the Respondents are lowering the dignity and respect of the great emperor. Thus, directions were sought to change the title of the film and include some respectful prefixes.

Beniwal argued that the present title of the film is in contravention of Section 5B (Principles for guidance in certifying films) of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, as per which, he submitted, the title of the film cannot be "indecent/ defamatory".

As the Bench comprising Chief Justice DN Patel and Justice Neena Bansal Krishna expressed its reservation to entertain the petition, the counsel sought permission to withdraw the plea.

Accordingly, the matter was disposed of as withdrawn.

It may be noted that a similar petition is also moved before the Allahabad High Court by Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena's National Vice President (women wing), stating that the film has been titled as 'Prithviraj' in place of 'Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan' and thus, it passes a wrong message in society also hurts the religious sentiments and beliefs of Rajput Community.

The plea avers that by simply naming/titling the aforesaid movie as "Prithviraj" (in place of 'Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan') the respondents (Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi, Aditya Chopra, and M/S Yash Raj Films Private Limited) have not only shown disrespect towards the Great Indian Historical King but has also hurt the religious sentiments and belief of Hindus at large across the country.

Case Title: Rashtriya Pravasi Parishad v. Union of India & Ors.

Citation: 2022 LiveLaw (Del) 153