, April 14 -- The release of Phule, a Bollywood biopic on 19th-century anti-caste reformers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, has been delayed following protests from upper-caste groups, who claim the film tarnishes their community's image.

Directed by Ananth Mahadevan, the film traces the lives and struggles of the Phule couple, known for championing Dalit rights and pioneering women's education in India. Although the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) initially cleared the movie with a U-certificate, it later asked for substantial edits-particularly the removal or softening of caste-specific references-after several Brahmin organisations in Maharashtra raised objections.

Authorities from groups such as the Akhil Bhartiya Brahmin ...