A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking safeguards against the release of The Taj Story, slated for nationwide release on October 31. The petition, filed by advocate Shakeel Abbas and BJP Leader Rajnish Sing, alleges that the film distorts historical facts surrounding the Taj Mahal and could potentially disrupt communal harmony. It names the Union of India, the CBFC, and the film’s makers, including producer CA Suresh Jha, director Tushar Amrish Goel, writer Saurabh M. Pandey, and actor Paresh Rawal as respondents. The plea contends that The Taj Story draws from speculative theories and demands the inclusion of disclaimers and restrictions to prevent public unrest, particularly in Agra.
The Delhi High Court, however, declined the urgent listing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking to stall or regulate the release of the upcoming film The Taj Story. The petitioner had requested the court to hear the matter on an immediate basis, citing concerns that the film could allegedly distort historical facts and disturb communal harmony just days before its scheduled nationwide release on October 31. However, the court refused to grant an urgent hearing, indicating that the matter would be taken up in due course as per normal procedure.
Responding to the allegations, director Tushar Amrish Goel said,“The Taj Story is not built on imagination or hearsay, or some fictional stories. It is the result of six months of extensive research done by our team, consultations, and verified historical references. Also, the respected Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) examined every detail and gave the approval to the film only after being fully satisfied with the film’s authenticity. Our intent was never to provoke or create communal tension, but to present a researched perspective that encourages informed discussion. I deeply respect the Delhi High Court’s decision to stand with the film and uphold the spirit of creative freedom. Cinema should remain a space for truth, research, and fearless storytelling.”
Producer CA Suresh Jha stated, saying, “All the allegations and the PIL filed against The Taj Story are completely baseless. We have made this film with full honesty, responsibility, and respect for our history. Our only aim is to bring the real story to the world, one that sparks curiosity, dialogue, and pride, not division.”
Amid growing controversy just days before release, The Taj Story has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate between artistic freedom and historical accountability. Featuring Paresh Rawal, Zakir Hussain, Amruta Khanvilkar, Sneha Wagh, and Namit Das, the film positions itself as a hard-hitting social drama questioning intellectual orthodoxy and re-examining historical narratives. With music by Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dev Nath, it aims to provoke thought and spark conversation, blending cinematic intensity with a bold exploration of one of India’s most iconic monuments and its many interpretations.
