Annapoorani Controversy: Zee Studios Issues Apology, Nayanthara-Starrer Removed From Netflix

Following criticism of ‘Annapoorni’ for potentially offending religious beliefs, Zee Studios sent an apology.

Nayanthara's film 'Annapoorani: The Goddess Of Food' was released on December 1. ( Image Source :Screengrab from YouTube/SaregamaTamil )

New Delhi: Nayanthara's latest film ‘Annapoorni’ has been removed from the streaming giant Netflix after it received backlash on social media for hurting religious sentiments. The film has been in the middle of controversy ever since its release as it is alleged that a scene in the film depicts Lord Ram as a meat eater. Protests and demands for the film's removal persisted on social media. Following the backlash Zee Studios issued an apology.

Ramesh Solanki, an activist, has accused the film's makers of hurting Hindu emotions and has filed a complaint with the Mumbai Police. 'Annapoorani: The Goddess of Food' against the producers and Nayanthara. According to the complaint, which the complainant uploaded on X (formerly Twitter), the film 'offends Hindu emotions' and promotes 'Love Jihad' in many instances.

The complaint also mentioned the movie's allegedly problematic dialogue—that implies the Hindu god Rama ate meat.

Vishva Hindu Parishad members also reportedly protested outside of Netflix's headquarters, calling for the removal of the film.

Producers of the film, Zee Studios have now issued an apology letter stating that the film has been removed from Netflix with immediate effect and will be back only after editing. The letter also states that the makers have 'no intention to hurt the religious sentiments of The Hindus and Brahmin community.'

 

Special Arrangement

'Annapoorani' follows a driven Brahmin woman from the traditional town of Srirangam as she pursues her dreams. She overcomes obstacles posed by her religious beliefs and caste throughout the film.

The film ‘Annapoorani’ had a limited theatre release in Tamil Nadu on December 1. Notable parts are played by Nayanthara and Jai in the film. The film was released on the OTT platform Netflix (now removed) on December 29, 2023.