Actor Manoj Bajpayee has addressed the controversy surrounding the title of his upcoming crime thriller Ghooskhor Pandat, revealing that the backlash led to threats and affected the entire team associated with the film. The makers have since apologised and agreed to change the title following objections from sections of the public who described it as casteist.
Speaking about the issue, Bajpayee said the controversy came as a surprise to the filmmakers. He noted that once concerns were raised, the team quickly assessed the situation and issued an apology within two days. According to the actor, creative professionals must remain open to feedback and make corrections if their work unintentionally causes hurt or offence.
Bajpayee emphasized that changing the title would not significantly impact the film, as creators can always find alternative names that are equally effective and engaging. However, he acknowledged that the controversy had affected the cast and crew, with some members, including himself, receiving threats before the apology was issued.
The dispute escalated beyond social media and entered legal forums. An FIR was reportedly registered at Hazratganj Police Station in Uttar Pradesh, while the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting following a complaint. The matter also reached the Supreme Court, where the filmmakers informed the court that the title would be changed.
While reflecting on the controversy, Bajpayee criticised the tendency of social media users to form opinions without fully understanding the context of a project. He stated that the film’s narrative is unrelated to the assumptions being made based solely on its title.
Directed by Ritesh Shah and produced by Neeraj Pandey’s Friday Filmworks, the film stars Bajpayee as Ajay Dikshit, popularly known as Pandat, a corrupt police officer whose plans are disrupted when he becomes entangled in a larger conspiracy unfolding in Delhi. The makers are expected to announce the film’s new title soon.
