Aditya Dhar’s upcoming film Dhurandhar has caught itself in legal trouble after the parents of late Major Mohit Sharma moved the Delhi High Court, asking for a stay on the film. Recently, Delhi HC refused their petition asking CBFC to consult the Indian Army and their family if needed. The family alleged that the film takes inspiration from the life of the officer, who was killed in action in 2009 and posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, without any consent.
Major Mohit Sharma`s brother breaks silence on Dhurandhar row
Major Mohit Sharma`s brother, Madhur Sharma, has broken the silence on the matter. Speaking to HT City now, Madhur said, “Ever since the film was announced, there is a lot of information on social media suggesting it is based on my brother. Reputed media channels and influencers with millions of followers have drawn correlations. We just want the producers to clarify and tell us the reality.”
Addressing the issue where the parents filed the petition despite Aditya Dhar denying any inspiration, he said, “There is a 36–48 hour difference between my tweet and Aditya Dhar’s reply. The petition was filed during that time.”
He noted that the family is only seeking acknowledgement, saying, “There is no benefit the parents are looking for. We want people to take a sympathetic, empathetic perspective. This is not just for us but for every family that has lost a son (in military operations). We just want due diligence. If the film is based on him, just say, ‘Sorry ma’am, we didn’t inform you.’ If not, say the hype is untrue.”
Madhur further added that the family is not opposed to a film on the officer, saying, “We would be proud if a film is made on him. Even in 2021, a film was announced, and we supported the producers. He has left a legacy, and it should live on.”
Delhi HC refused stay on the film
During the hearing on December 1, Justice Sachin Datta directed the CBFC to consider and examine the grievances raised by the parents before deciding on the film certification and disposed of the petition. The petition is disposed of with a direction that the CBFC will consider all the aspects of the matter, including the concerns of the petitioner, before granting certification.
“If the CBFC considers it relevant to refer the matter to the Indian Army for necessary approvals, they should do that too. Let the exercise be completed by the CBFC as expeditiously as possible,” the court said.