Controversy Surrounds 'Ghooskhor Pandat' Film Over Title Claims

The anticipated Netflix film 'Ghooskhor Pandat' has ignited controversy in India, leading to legal action following objections regarding its title. On February 6, 2026, the Uttar Pradesh Police filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the film's creators after numerous complaints suggested that the title could disrupt social harmony and offend religious and caste sensibilities.

The FIR was initiated in response to the film's teaser, which features Manoj Bajpayee in the role of a corrupt police officer. This teaser, released during a recent Netflix event in Mumbai, attracted swift backlash, particularly concerning the perceived derogatory implications of the term 'Pandat' — a colloquial term for Brahmins — when combined with 'Ghooskhor,' which refers to a bribe-taker. Critics argue that this association unfairly stereotypes the Brahmin community.

Prominent political figures have joined the outcry against the film. Mayawati, leader of the Bahujan Samaj Party, stated on social media that it was disheartening to see the term 'Pandit' depicted negatively in cinema. Additionally, Vinod Bansal, spokesperson for the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, denounced the title as 'totally unacceptable,' viewing it as an affront to a respected segment of Hindu society.

Further escalating the situation, a petition was lodged in the Delhi High Court, claiming that the film title intentionally maligns the Brahmin community by linking it to corruption. In light of these events, the National Human Rights Commission has also taken action, issuing a notice to India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting regarding the negative portrayal of a recognised social group.

In response to the backlash, Neeraj Pandey, the film's producer and director, expressed regret for any distress caused by the title. He clarified via social media that 'Ghooskhor Pandat' is not a commentary on any community, stating, 'Our film is a fictional cop drama'. Pandey further underscored that 'Pandat' was used merely as a character name in the narrative, describing it as a depiction of morally ambiguous actions rather than a reflection on real-life communities.

Additionally, Manoj Bajpayee took to social media to share his perspective, urging that the film should not be interpreted as targeting any group. He noted, 'I respect the emotions and concerns people have shared.' His commitment to addressing the hurt caused was clear when he remarked that filmmakers must listen when a project evokes negative feelings.

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has also condemned the title. BF Tiwari, the President of FWICE, stated that such filmmakers disrespect communal sentiments and called for a ban on the film and its creators. He emphasised that the organisation would not offer any cooperation to the producers or the streaming platform.

The uproar surrounding 'Ghooskhor Pandat' has highlighted the challenges filmmakers face regarding sensitive portrayal of communities in contemporary cinema. While the film is slated for release later this year, the ongoing discussions suggest a potentially tumultuous journey ahead for the project's completion and public reception.