FWICE Warns Producer Neeraj Pandey to Change Controversial Film Title ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’ or Face Boycott

The upcoming Manoj Bajpayee starrer Ghooskhor Pandat has sparked controversy over its title. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has issued a warning to producer Neeraj Pandey, stating that if the title is not changed, both he and his production house, Friday Filmworks, could face a boycott.

Title Sparks Objection

FWICE has expressed strong objections to the film’s title, calling it offensive. The federation argued that the term Pandat disparages a specific community and their traditional livelihood. In an official letter, FWICE emphasized that the title could hurt sentiments, spread misunderstanding, and disturb social harmony.

The federation also sent letters to key industry bodies including the Indian Motion Picture Producers Association, Producers Guild of India, Indian Film and Television Producers Council, Western India Film and TV Producers Association, as well as OTT platforms like Amazon, Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, and JioCinema, urging them to intervene.

FWICE Stresses Social Responsibility

“While the film industry serves as a medium for freedom of expression, it also carries a social responsibility. Film titles and content should not propagate hate, disrespect, or unrest,” FWICE stated.

The letter warned that society should not tolerate discrimination based on caste, religion, sect, or profession. Every profession deserves respect and dignity, and films must reflect this principle.

Appeal to Producer Unit

FWICE has appealed to Neeraj Pandey and Friday Filmworks to withdraw the title immediately in the interest of social harmony and unity. The federation also urged the production unit not to register or continue with any provocative or controversial titles.

Boycott Threat Issued

The letter clearly warned that if corrective action is not taken immediately, FWICE will instruct all its affiliated associations and hundreds of members to distance themselves from any projects by Neeraj Pandey or Friday Filmworks. The federation expressed hope that all concerned institutions would recognize the seriousness of the matter and act in the best interest of both the industry and society.

Background of the Controversy

The controversy escalated after an FIR was filed against the film’s director and team at Hazratganj Police Station in Lucknow, following directives from Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath. Subsequently, Neeraj Pandey promised to remove all promotional content, and Manoj Bajpayee also expressed respect for public sentiments. The issue centers around accusations that the word Pandat defames a particular community and caste, prompting demands to change the film’s title.