Acharya Pramod Krishnam, a former Congress leader, has sent a legal notice to the producers and actors of the newly released film "Kalki 2898 AD," accusing the dystopian sci-fi movie of offending Hindu religious sentiments.
The notice specifically names legendary Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan and prominent South Indian actor Prabhas, among others.
Krishnam expressed his concerns, stating that the film has hurt the religious feelings of Hindus. "India is a land of emotions, faith, and devotion. The values of Sanatana Dharma should not be tampered with, and the scriptures should not be altered. Lord Kalki Narayan, considered the final incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is central to our faith. Much is written about Lord Kalki in the Puranas, and based on this, PM Modi laid the foundation stone of Shri Kalki Dham on February 19," Krishnam said.
He further added, "This film contradicts what is described in our scriptures and is hurting our religious sentiments. We have noted some objections and are awaiting a response. Filmmakers seem to treat playing with Hindu sentiments as a pastime, portraying saints as demons. Freedom of expression does not mean one can tamper with our faith."
The legal notice, sent by Supreme Court advocate Ujjawal Anand Sharma on behalf of Krishnam, claims that the film has inaccurately and disrespectfully altered the depiction of Lord Kalki, as described in Hindu Puranic Scriptures, reported The Indian Express.
"Your movie has changed the basic concept of Lord Kalki, leading to confusion and potentially tarnishing the mythology and ethos of Lord Kalki in the hearts and minds of devout Hindus. This misrepresentation can cause extreme distress to the faith and religious sentiments of our client and the wider Hindu community," the notice stated.
"Kalki 2898 AD," directed by Nag Ashwin, is a post-apocalyptic film inspired by Hindu scriptures and set in the year 2898 AD. The film features an ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, and Disha Patani.