‘More such films should be made’: Rahul Gandhi on biographical movie ‘Phule’

NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has expressed his wholehearted support for the biographical film ‘Phule.’.

Directed by Ananth Mahadevan, the film highlights the inspiring lives of two of Maharashtra’s most influential social reformers, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and his wife, Savitribai Phule, who were pivotal in challenging social injustices like caste and gender discrimination in India.

Taking to X, he wrote, “‘Phule’ is not just a film or a biography, it is a good initiative to recognize the history of the Bahujan society, which is missing from the mainstream of our education. More such films should be made that bring forth the Bahujan history and struggle – only by seeing, reading and recognising them will the voice of justice become louder.”

Meanwhile, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale also showed his appreciation for the biographical film ‘Phule’ during a special screening held on May 1, 2025, in Mumbai.

Athawale praised the film for its cultural and social significance, emphasising that it is a must-watch for everyone, including lawmakers.

“Phule” is not just a film or biography, but an initiative to recognize the history of the Bahujan society, which is absent from the mainstream of our education.

More such films should be made in the country, which present the history and struggles of the Bahujans to the people. pic.twitter.com/V2I214Yewv

— Pavan K N (@PavanNerella9) May 20, 2025

The minister has called for the film to be made tax-free across India, suggesting it should be shown to all Parliamentarians and even President Draupadi Murmu.”This movie is a good attempt to highlight the contributions of Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule. It should be watched by everyone, especially our lawmakers, to understand the social issues it addresses. I recommend this film even to the President of India,” said Athawale in a press note, underlining the historical importance of the social reforms by Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and his wife, Savitribai Phule and their relevance in modern-day India.

‘Phule’, starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, was released on April 25, 2025, after it faced objections from certain groups concerning its portrayal of caste-based discrimination.

Director Ananth Mahadevan, who was also present at the screening, shared his gratitude for Athawale’s support.”The film is a true to history and we have made it with all our heart. I am glad AthawaleJi has endorsed the film today. Today, I am as happy as I am grateful to him for his wholehearted support for the film,” Mahadevan said.

The film’s core narrative is rooted in the struggles of the Phules, who fought against caste discrimination, illiteracy, and gender biases in 19th-century India. ‘Phule’ is produced by Dancing Shiva Films and Kingsmen Productions, with Zee Studios handling its distribution.

The film also features Vinay Pathak, Suresh Vishwakarma, and Darsheel Safary. (ANI)