The upcoming Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat, starring Manoj Bajpayee, has been embroiled in controversy even before its release, facing legal challenges, objections from film bodies, and public backlash over its title. The film, produced by Neeraj Pandey, is facing scrutiny for allegedly hurting religious and caste sentiments.

The controversy began after the teaser of Ghooskhor Pandat was unveiled at a Netflix event in Mumbai. The teaser introduced Manoj Bajpayee’s character, who is nicknamed “Pandat”. The title, which translates to "Bribe-Taker Pandit," sparked immediate outrage on social media, with users accusing it of casteist implications by associating a respected community title with corrupt behavior. Objections arose from various groups, who deemed the title derogatory and offensive.

Adding to the film's troubles, the Film Makers Combine (FMC), a Mumbai-based film body, issued a notice to Netflix and the production house, Friday Story Tellers, objecting to the "unauthorized" use of the film's title. The FMC claimed that the makers had not obtained the mandatory approval for the title as required under industry rules. The film body stated that Neeraj Pandey, a registered member of the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA), had failed to apply for the title Ghooskhor Pandat. The notice warned that continued use of the title without authorization could invite disciplinary action and urged the streamer to refrain from using the title. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) also strongly objected to the title, stating that it appeared to target a particular community in a derogatory manner.

Amid the mounting controversy, an FIR was registered at Hazratganj Police Station in Lucknow against the makers, alleging that the film's title hurt religious and caste sentiments. The complaint names Neeraj Pandey and his team. Separately, a writ petition was filed before the Delhi High Court, seeking a stay on the release of the film, alleging that the title is communally offensive. The Centre has also directed Netflix to remove the teaser of Ghooskhor Pandat. BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia praised the Centre's move, stating that the strictest possible action would be taken against those who demean any caste or community for commercial gains.

Following the backlash, Neeraj Pandey issued a clarification stating that the film is a fictional cop drama and the term 'Pandat' is used simply as a colloquial name for a fictional character. He added that the story focuses on an individual's actions and choices and does not comment on or represent any caste, religion, or community. Acknowledging the hurt caused, Pandey announced that the makers have decided to temporarily withdraw all promotional material. Despite the apology, the legal case and the objections from film bodies remain, leaving the release of Ghooskhor Pandat in a dilemma.

The controversy surrounding Ghooskhor Pandat highlights the sensitivity around caste and religious representation in Indian cinema and the potential for film titles and content to cause offense and social unrest. It also raises questions about the responsibility of filmmakers and streaming platforms to ensure that their content does not promote hatred, disrespect, or unrest among citizens.