Neeraj Pandey Withdraws Promotions After Backlash Over Ghooskhor Pandat Title

Filmmaker Neeraj Pandey has withdrawn all promotional material related to his upcoming project Ghooskhor Pandat following widespread criticism over the film’s title, which many alleged was offensive and hurt religious and caste sentiments. The title, combining the word “ghooskhor” (bribe-taker) with “pandat” (a term associated with priests or the Pandit community), triggered objections from various groups who argued it unfairly stereotyped a social community by linking it to corruption.

The project, starring Manoj Bajpayee and described as a fictional police drama, became the centre of controversy soon after its promotional content was released. Several complaints were filed, including a police case in Lucknow, while petitions were moved before the Delhi High Court seeking a stay on the film’s release. Objections were also raised at institutional levels, with notices issued to the makers questioning the appropriateness and authorisation of the title.

Responding to the growing backlash, Pandey released a statement acknowledging that the title had caused hurt to some people. He emphasised that the film was entirely fictional and was never intended to target or malign any caste, religion, or community. He added that the intention of the story could only be understood in full once audiences viewed the film, rather than through posters or teasers.

As a step toward addressing concerns, the filmmaker said all promotional activities had been paused and related material taken down. The move, he noted, was meant to allow space for dialogue and to prevent further misunderstanding while the matter is reviewed.

The controversy has also sparked a broader debate around creative freedom and responsibility in storytelling, particularly when titles or narratives intersect with sensitive social identities. For now, the future course regarding the film’s title and release remains uncertain, as legal and public scrutiny continues alongside discussions between stakeholders.