– Raheem Khan
The upcoming film ‘Udaipur Files’, based on the 2022 murder of tailor Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur, has triggered major controversy after its trailer release. Set to hit theatres on Friday, July 11, 2025, the film has drawn severe criticism. Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (Rajasthan) has demanded a complete ban on its screening. The group’s state president, Muhammad Nazimuddin, said the film is a direct threat to communal peace and harmony.
The trailer of ‘Udaipur Files’ has drawn widespread backlash. It references Nupur Sharma’s 2022 remarks, which led to communal violence across India and damaged the nation’s global image. The trailer also includes offensive comments about Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his wives. Critics say these remarks are deeply hurtful and inflammatory.
The film portrays Deoband, a major Islamic educational center, as a center of extremism. It targets Islamic scholars and institutions, which Nazimuddin called “venomous propaganda.”
In a press note, Nazimuddin said, “The trailer clearly shows the film is meant to demonize Muslims. It tries to spread hate and poison the country’s atmosphere. It insults an entire religious group and damages social harmony.”
He added that the film misuses freedom of expression by including false and offensive scenes unrelated to Islam, Muslims, or Deoband.
Nazimuddin slammed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for allowing the film’s release. He questioned how the board approved it despite its violation of the Cinematograph Act, 1952 – particularly Section 5B – and the 1991 film certification guidelines.
He said, “The CBFC ignored its own rules. This film could destroy communal harmony. This isn’t the first time. The board has approved many such films before. This points to a deeper conspiracy.”
The trailer is 2 minutes and 53 seconds long and packed with scenes and dialogues that critics say provoke communal conflict. Nazimuddin said the trailer alone shows how dangerous the film is, and accused the makers of spreading hate against Muslims.
The trailer also refers to issues like the Gyanvapi Mosque, further raising concerns. Nazimuddin stressed that India is a secular democracy. Every citizen has the right to practice their faith, live with dignity, and protect their cultural identity.
“In our secular country, the Constitution allows all people to live freely, eat freely, dress as they choose, and follow their religion. But no one can hurt another’s religious feelings in the name of free speech,” he said.
Jamaat-e-Islami Hind put forward the following demands:
1. Total Ban on ‘Udaipur Files’.
2. Cancel the CBFC Certificate issued to the film.
3. Future Caution – Urging the CBFC not to clear films that promote hate or division.
Nazimuddin urged the government to act fast. He said, “The government must take immediate steps to stop this kind of hateful content. National unity and peace must be protected.”
The trailer’s release has caused an uproar on social media and among social groups. Many people and local communities are speaking out against the film. They say it unfairly portrays Muslims and violates their rights to dignity and respect.
While some users defend the film as free speech, others say it spreads hate. The online debate is growing. People are now questioning how to balance free expression with the need to preserve communal harmony.
The controversy has put pressure on the film’s makers, the CBFC, and the government. Key questions remain: Will the film be banned? Will the CBFC withdraw its certificate?
The answers may come soon, as the public discussion grows. The issue raises important questions about freedom of speech and the responsibility to maintain peace in India’s diverse society. As the release nears, all eyes are on how the matter will be handled.
