Manoj Bajpayee’s next film, Ghooskhor Pandat, was confirmed on February 3 at Netflix’s 2026 slate announcement event. Neeraj Pandey writes and produces
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the crime thriller. Soon after the title was announced, a section of netizens called it an insult to a religious community. A petition to stay its release was filed in the Delhi High Court. Amid the legal controversy, Neeraj issued a statement and decided to pull the teaser down. He further clarified that the title did not represent any caste, religion or community. Pandey urged the audience to watch the film and not judge on partial glimpses.
Neeraj Panday issues statement amid Ghooskhor Pandat row
In his statement, Neeraj wrote, “Our film is a fictional cop drama, and the term “Pandat” is used simply as a colloquial name for a fictional character. The story focuses on an individual’s actions and choices and does not comment on or represent any caste, religion, or community. As a filmmaker, I approach my work with a deep sense of responsibility - to tell stories that are thoughtful and respectful.”
He added, “This film, like my earlier work, has been created with sincere intent and solely to entertain audiences. We understand that the title of the film has caused hurt to some viewers, and we genuinely acknowledge those feelings. In light of these concerns, we have decided to take down all promotional materials for the time being, as we believe the film should be experienced in its entirety and understood in the context of the story we intended to tell, rather than judged on partial glimpses. I look forward to sharing the film with audiences soon.”
Petition against Ghooskhor Pandat
Before the statement, a petition was filed in the Delhi High Court against Ghooskhor Pandat, stating the title and promotional material indicate a deliberate association of the term ‘Pandat’ (or Pandit) with corruption and bribery. Advocate Vineet Jindal sought a stay on the film’s release on Netflix, as the petitioner took objection over the content, which is alleged ‘communally offensive and defamatory nature’ and tarnishes the dignity and reputation of the Brahmin community.
The petitioner has reportedly sought the court’s immediate intervention as the film could lead to "collective defamation and hate speech" that would disturb communal harmony and public order. As per the plea, the term ‘Pandat’ in the title and content allegedly leads to collective defamation because it ‘deliberately associates a well-recognised religious and social designation with corruption and bribery, thereby maligning and lowering the reputation of an entire community in the eyes of the public.’
About Ghooskhor Pandat
Ritesh Shah directs the film, while Neeraj Pandey and Shah are writers. Apart from Manoj, the movie stars Nushrratt Bharuccha, Saqib Saleem, Akshay Oberoi and Divya Dutta. Ghooskhor Pandat’s release date is yet to be announced.
