HC Approves Release Of Annu Kapoor’s ‘Hamare Baarah’, But Karnataka Bans Film; What’s The Controversy?

Mumbai: After several ups and downs, ‘Hamare Baarah’ received the green light to be released on Friday.

The Bombay High Court allowed the film to be released in theatres after its makers agreed to delete two dialogues.

Congress-helmed Karnataka government, however, has banned the release and broadcast of the film — which stars Annu Kapoor, Manoj Joshi and Paritosh Tripathi — in the state for two weeks or until further notice.

The state government is of the view that the release of ‘Hamare Baarah’ will create communal tension. The decision has been made after considering requests from several minority organisations and delegations, and after watching the trailer, in accordance with Karnataka Cinema Regulations Act, 1964 under Sections 15(1) and 15(5).

‘Hamare Baarah’ — directed by Kamal Chandra and jointly produced by Birender Bhagat, Ravi S Gupta, Sanjay Nagpal and Sheo Balak Singh — explores the theme of overpopulation, has garnered attention for its bold narrative and thought-provoking themes.

A petition had been filed a few days ago challenging the release of the film which stars Annu Kapoor, Manoj Joshi and Paritosh Tripathi.

Jointly produced by Birender Bhagat, Ravi S Gupta, Sanjay Nagpal and Sheo Balak Singh, and directed by Kamal Chandra, ‘Hamare Baarah’ explores the theme of overpopulation and has attracted attention for its bold and thought-provoking narrative.

A legal obstacle arose following a petition filed by religious community activists, challenging the film’s release.

On June 5, Bombay High Court imposed a stay order on the film’s release till June 14.

During an evening hearing on June 6, the High Court lifted the injunction on the movie’s release. The court also directed the respondents to form a three-member committee – including at least one Muslim — to watch the film and submit its report by 9 am on June 7.

However, the court was informed on Friday morning that the three-member review committee could not reach a conclusion and requested more time to submit its report.

Expressing its dissatisfaction, the court said, “It’s totally unacceptable that the committee has failed to fulfil its obligation given by this court specifically in its previous order.”

Senior advocate Rahul Narichania, representing the filmmakers, then agreed to delete the two dialogues which were objected to by the petitioners in order to avoid delay.