Actor-director Mrunmayee Deshpande has expressed disappointment after screenings of her recently released Marathi film Manache Shlok were stopped in Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and other parts of Maharashtra. Videos circulating on social media showed individuals wearing saffron stoles disrupting the film’s shows, alleging that the title—borrowed from the revered collection of verses by saint-poet Samarth Ramdas Swami—disrespects Hindu culture. Protesters argued that using the sacred name Manache Shlok for a commercial movie was inappropriate.
Deshpande, who also stars in the film, took to Instagram to describe the stall of screenings across western Maharashtra as “saddening.” She confirmed that the film has been withdrawn from theatres statewide and announced plans for a re-release under a new title on October 16.Reacting to the controversy, Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant criticised the protesters, saying their actions revealed a lack of true understanding of Samarth Ramdas Swami’s Manache Shlok.
“Had they read it, they would not have behaved this way. ‘Manache Shlok’ guides the human mind towards righteousness, self-reflection, and rational thought. Its purpose is to enrich life and keep it free from sin—not to justify aggression or hooliganism,” Sawant stated.
He further added, “Intimidation and violence in the name of Lord Ram insult him, whose ideals embody character, brotherhood, compassion, love, restraint, justice, and virtue. Such behaviour contradicts Lord Ram’s philosophy and instead follows the path of Ravan.”Sawant also criticised the government for failing to protect filmmakers and uphold freedom of creative expression. “When external groups coerce artists to change film titles and the government remains silent, it clearly signals official endorsement of unconstitutional actions,” he said.
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