HC says Annu Kapoor starrer Hamare Baarah is “for the upliftment of women”; find nothing ‘objectionable to the Quran’

After extensive legal battles and debates, the Bombay High Court cleared Annu Kapoor’s film ‘Hamare Baarah’ on June 18, 2024. The court declared that it found no content in the movie objectionable to the Quran, the Muslim community, or women. However, it criticised the initial trailer, deeming it objectionable.

Despite giving the film a clean chit, the court imposed a penalty on the filmmakers for releasing the trailer without certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Following the court’s advice, the filmmakers had already removed all objectionable scenes and dialogues.

HC says Hamare Baarah has nothing objectionable

The court described the film as thought-provoking rather than one where ‘viewers switch off their minds’. According to a report by the Free Press Journal, the court stated, “The movie is in fact for the upliftment of women.” It highlighted a scene where a Maulana misinterprets the Quran, while a Muslim man objects, emphasising the importance of critical thinking over blind adherence to religious figures.

The High Court’s decision addressed multiple petitions that sought a ban on the film, alleging it demeaned the Muslim community and misrepresented Quranic teachings.

Previously, a vacation bench of High Court judges had delayed the movie’s release from June 7 to June 14, allowing its release only after the filmmakers agreed to remove controversial dialogue as instructed by the CBFC. Petitioners then approached the Supreme Court, which halted the film’s release and directed the High Court to resolve the dispute.

About the film Hamare Baarah

Set in Uttar Pradesh, ‘Hamare Baarah’ tackles the pressing issue of population growth. The film is produced by Ravi S. Gupta, Sanjay Nagpal, Birender Bhagat, and Sheo Balak Singh, with Triloki Nath Prasad as assistant producer and Kamal Chandra as the director.

In addition to Annu Kapoor, the movie features a talented ensemble cast. Parth Samtha, Paritosh Tiwari, Ashwini Kalsekar, Manoj Joshi, Rahul Bagga, and Aditi Bhatpahri, among others are in significant roles.

The court’s decision to clear the film but penalise the filmmakers underscores the importance of adhering to certification processes while also allowing for thought-provoking content that promotes critical thinking and social issues.

Also Read: Hamare Baarah: Supreme Court stays release of the Annu Kapoor starrer a day below release- Here’s why