Case Registered Against Nayanathara for Hurting Religious Sentiments 

Bhopal, January 11, 2024: The film ‘Annapoorani’ finds itself in the eye of a storm as a case has been registered against actor Nayanthara, the film’s director Nilesh Krishnaa, producers Jatin Sethi and R Ravindran, and Netflix India’s content head Monika Shergill. T

he First Information Report (FIR), filed by the Hindu Sewa Parishad in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, alleges that the accused have hurt religious sentiments of Hindus, disrespected Lord Ram, and promoted ‘love jihad’ through the movie.

The FIR, filed under Indian Penal Code sections related to promoting enmity among groups on religious grounds, claims that ‘Annapoorani’ has insulted Sanatana Dharma and made baseless comments against Lord Ram. Specific scenes are highlighted, including one where Nayanthara, portraying the daughter of a temple priest, is depicted offering namaz wearing a hijab before preparing biryani. The complaint also mentions a segment where the character played by Nayanthara is allegedly “brainwashed” into cutting meat, with the claim that Lord Ram and Goddess Sita consumed meat.

The controversy gains significance as the film, released in theaters on December 1, began streaming on Netflix on December 29. Following public outrage and multiple police complaints, the OTT platform has now removed ‘Annapoorani’. Two additional complaints have been filed in Mumbai by right-wing outfits Bajrang Dal and Hindu IT Cell.

The timing of the uproar, just days before the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, adds a layer of sensitivity to the situation. Social media has echoed the complainants’ allegations, with calls for legal action against the film’s makers. The accused now face legal scrutiny over alleged offenses against religious sentiments and the promotion of ‘love jihad’ in the controversial film.