Sunny Deol’s upcoming film Suryaa: Ant Se Aarambh Tak has come under legal scrutiny ahead of its theatrical release, after a group of doctors approached the Delhi High Court over its teaser.
The court issued notices to the Centre, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), relevant government ministries and the film’s producers on November 2, seeking their responses to the petition.
Why have doctors objected?
– Alleged portrayal of doctors: The petitioners contend that the teaser depicts medical professionals in private hospitals as corrupt, accusing them of overcharging patients, prescribing unnecessary tests and receiving commissions.
– Concerns over violence: They have also objected to scenes showing people in hospital attire being assaulted, arguing that the promotional material could encourage hostility towards healthcare workers.
– Questions over the fictional narrative: The teaser describes the story as being inspired by unbelievable true events. The doctors argue that this could mislead audiences into viewing its allegations about the healthcare system as established facts.
The petitioners have sought the removal or suspension of the teaser from online platforms until it is examined by the relevant authorities. They have also requested a clear disclaimer identifying the film as fictional.
What happens next?
The High Court has sought responses from the concerned parties but has not ordered the teaser’s removal or stayed the film’s release. The matter is scheduled for another hearing on November 16.
Directed by M. Padmakumar, Suryaa: Ant Se Aarambh Tak stars Sunny Deol and is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on November 20. The film is a Hindi adaptation of the 2018 Malayalam thriller Joseph.With its release approaching, the legal proceedings have added another development to the film’s pre-release journey.