The Marathi film Manache Shlok, directed by and starring Mrunmayee Deshpande, became the center of a controversy due to its title, which coincides with a revered spiritual text by Saint Samarth Ramdas. Several Hindu organizations protested against the film in Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and other regions of western Maharashtra, asserting that using such a sacred title for a movie — particularly one dealing with themes like live-in relationships — was offensive to religious sentiments.
The protests led to the disruption of shows, tearing of banners, and the raising of slogans against the filmmakers. Initially released on October 10, many screenings were forced to halt. Following this, the producers announced that the film would undergo a title change along with a revised release date.
The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti maintained that Manache Shlok imparts teachings on religion, self-discipline, and devotion, and should not be repurposed for commercial entertainment. The Samarth Seva Mandal from Sajjangad even approached the Bombay High Court seeking a stay, which was rejected. The court clarified that while the title resembled the saint’s work, the film itself bore no connection to it. Justice Sandesh Patil cited a verse from Manache Shlok emphasizing the distinction between what is condemned and what is revered.
Political voices, including the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), defended the film’s creators, stressing the importance of artistic freedom and expression.
To resolve the dispute, the filmmakers renamed the movie Tu Bol Na (“You Speak Up”), which will release across Maharashtra on October 16. Observers have noted that the original title served as a philosophical metaphor, reflecting human thoughts, moral dilemmas, and social realities. The film’s eventual release under a new name represents a balance between creative expression and cultural sensitivity.
Tu Bol Na Marathi Film Trailer
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