'Why Denigrate A Section?' : Supreme Court Objects To 'Ghooskhor Pandat' Name For Netflix Series, Asks Makers To Inform New Title

The Supreme Court today asked the makers of the Netflix series 'Ghooskhor Pandat' to file an affidavit confirming that the title has been withdrawn and stating the new title. The Court said that unless a new name is placed on record, it will not permit the release of the series.

A bench of Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan issued notice to the respondents (Union of India, Central Board of Film Certification and director Neeraj Pandey) in a PIL filed by one Atul Mishra, who objected to the title of the series as defaming the entire Brahmin community.

The Court observed that while it respects the right to freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, that right is subject to restrictions. The Court questioned the film title, remarking, “Why should you denigrate a section of society by this kind of title?”

Today, counsel for the makers informed the Supreme Court that steps are already being taken to change the title. The Court directed them to make the statement by way of an affidavit and posted the matter for further hearing on February 19.

The film, starring Manoj Bajpayee, is directed by Neeraj Pandey and slated to stream on Netflix. The title and associated promotional campaign drew criticism shortly after its announcement.

The controversy first reached the courts earlier this week after a writ petition was filed in the Delhi High Court opposing the title and the content. That plea alleged that the title amounts to collective defamation, stereotyping, and vilification of an entire religious and social community, and would cause irreversible harm to the dignity and reputation of Acharyas and the Brahmin community at large.

The Delhi High Court disposed of that writ petition noting that the producers have decided to change the title of the film to an alternate title which more accurately reflects the film's narrative and intent.

Case no. – W.P.(C) No. 181/2026

Case Title – Atul Mishra v. Union Of India