Premiere Halted, Posters Torn In Pune: Why Marathi Film 'Mana Che Shlok' Is Facing Backlash

The Marathi film ‘Mana Che Shlok‘ is currently at the centre of a legal battle and significant opposition. Several right wing organisations have objected to the film for using the name of the holy book of the saint Shri Samarth Ramdas Swami Maharaj. Despite these objections, the High Court has cleared the release of the film. However it has led to a lot of commotion in Pune.

The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti filed a petition in the High Court, alleging that the title ‘Mana Che Shlok‘ offended Hindu beliefs. They argued that making a film about live-in relationships using this holy name insulted Samarth Ramdas Swami.

However, the High Court refused to stay the film’s release. In response, the film’s team expressed their happiness and announced the clearance

for the release through a press release.

Despite the court’s decision, right wing organisations continued their protests. As the premiere of ‘Mana Che Shlok‘ began in a theatre in Kothrud, Pune, right wing organisations stormed the venue. They attacked the filmmakers and forcibly stopped the show, arguing that the film’s title disrespects Samarth Ramdas Swami. Consequently, all screenings of the film in Pune have been halted.

This controversy underscores the tension between freedom of expression and respect for cultural values. While the High Court has supported the film’s release, right wing organisations maintain their stance, alleging that it hurts their religious sentiments. The film’s future release in Maharashtra remains uncertain amidst ongoing tensions.

‘Mana Che Shlok‘ is one of the few Marathi films to be released in October 2025. Objections arose after the release of the trailer, with claims that using the name of the holy book ‘Mana Che Shlok‘ for a Marathi movie was an exploitation of Hindu faith.

The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti demanded an immediate change of the film’s title and threatened protests if not complied with. They filed a petition in court, which then drew public attention to the film’s release status.

The High Court’s refusal to stay the film’s release brought relief to the film’s team, who shared this news through a public press release.

It reads: “The Honorable High Court, while hearing the petition to halt the release of the movie Mana Che Shlok, refused to grant a stay. This clears the way for the film’s release. The entire team of Mana Che Shlok welcomes the Court’s decision.”

“We have been working hard to promote this film for the past five months. Everyone was aware long ago that Mana Che Shlok was coming. Yet, an attempt was made to halt its release just a day before the screening. Two days prior, messages opposing the film’s name began circulating on social media. These events caused the entire team unnecessary mental distress. Considering the sequence of events, it appears this may have been premeditated, which is truly unfortunate,” it added.

What Does The Name ‘Mana Che Shlok’ Actually Mean?

The team clarified that the film’s title ‘Manache Shlok‘ refers to the journey of the film’s protagonists, Manava and Shlok, and has no connection to Ramdas Swami or his verses.

Despite the backlash, the film’s team remains committed to the title, asserting their respect for Ramdas Swami’s works.

“We stand by this name with complete honesty. At a time when the entire Marathi film industry is striving to establish itself, it is disappointing that instead of welcoming this family film, it faced opposition without proper information. The decision of the Honorable High Court has finally brought us relief. We urge the audience to support the film wholeheartedly, just as they have supported us before, and to give it their blessings and a warm reception,” the release said.