The Vijay Raaz-starred drama Udaipur Files has finally arrived in the big screens, rolling out in 4,500 theaters across the country after it gained clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
The film takes its plot from the actual killing of Udaipur tailor Kanhaiya Lal, who was murdered in June 2022 following allegedly posting social media content in favor of BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma. Sharma's comments had previously incited the 2022 Muhammad controversy.
Discussing the release of the film, Kanhaiya Lal's son, Yash Sahu, stated:
This film, coming out today, Udaipur Files, is inspired by the story of my father, which occurred on 28th June, 2022. How my father was murdered in a terrorist conspiracy. These individuals had links with Pakistan."
He further said that large parts of the narrative resemble facts from the NIA charge sheet and that the film has an important message: "Such cases can be exposed through cinema. It's necessary that people learn the truth."
Sahu was frustrated that his family's fight for justice goes on with no substantial progress.
"I have visited numerous cases, but in this case also, I still could not find anything that these criminals are being punished for. A very long period of time has lapsed," he said. "Three years is a very long period of time.". Even today, the criminal remains behind bars. He has not been punished yet. So, I hope that after viewing this movie, people will stand with us for justice. And the criminals will join us to obtain the punishment of hanging as soon as possible.
Reminding us of the challenges encountered prior to release, he disclosed that the project was originally set to be premiered on July 11, 2025, but encountered a series of legal hurdles.
"There were many issues with the release. It was contested in High Court Delhi. He obtained a stay in that. Because this film was to be released on 11th July. He obtained a stay on 10th July, one day prior to that," Sahu informed.
"Even then, so many efforts were made to release it. He received a stay in that too. It was challenged in the Supreme Court too. The Supreme Court also stated, let the film arrive. Because the film is CBFC certified. So, the film which CBFC has provided the certification, that film will reach people. Then, its call was left up to the Central Government."
Finally, the Centre approved, clearing the way for the release.
"The Central Government also gave a right decision in this. But only yesterday, it was told that this film should be released. And today, this film is before you, before the people of the nation, and is on release," Sahu added.
The gruesome murder had been recorded by the perpetrators themselves, who asserted it as a revenge for Lal's supposed social media entry. Javed, one of the accused, even filed a case with the Supreme Court to prevent the release of the film.
Jasoda Sahu, the wife of Kanhaiya Lal, revealed that she herself stepped in when the film was halted.
When the release was halted, I sent a letter to the Prime Minister seeking to allow me to release it. The film is a real indication of the pain and suffering of our family, and the whole nation needs to see it," she added.
Even after the delays and court battles, Udaipur Files is playing in theatres throughout the country, with a personal and political message for viewers.
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