A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking action against the upcoming film The Taj Story, starring Paresh Rawal, slated for release on October 31. The controversy erupted after the film’s poster showed a statue of Lord Shiva emerging from the iconic Taj Mahal dome—a depiction that revives the disputed theory claiming the Taj Mahal was originally a Hindu temple.
The petitioner, Advocate Shakeel Abbas, alleges that The Taj Story promotes “fabricated and provocative content” regarding the Taj Mahal’s origins, contradicting well-established historical facts and scholarly research. The PIL argues that such speculative portrayals risk undermining public trust in history, inciting communal disharmony, and tarnishing the international image of the Taj Mahal, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The plea calls on the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to re-examine the film’s certification and mandate necessary edits to prevent communal unrest. It also demands that the filmmakers include a clear disclaimer stating that the movie presents a contested narrative rather than accepted historical truth. Further, the petition highlights that the film contains “deeply divisive scenes” capable of sparking communal tensions and disturbing public order.
It points out that controversial claims made by political figures and fringe groups have already amplified the issue, raising concerns about possible nationwide unrest. With the Taj Mahal being a symbol of India’s rich heritage and unity, the PIL stresses the need to handle such sensitive subjects responsibly to maintain communal harmony and protect the monument’s revered status both nationally and internationally. Stay tuned to know more about it and others only with us and if you have anything to share, do comment below and share your thoughts.
