Netflix Pulls 'Annapoorani' Amid Hindu Backlash
The film's removal highlights the increasing influence of Hindu nationalist groups on media depiction in India.
- Netflix has removed the Tamil-language film 'Annapoorani: The Goddess of Food' from its platform following backlash from Hindu groups in India. The film, which depicts the daughter of a Hindu priest eating meat and engaging in an inter-religious romance, was accused of hurting Hindu sentiments.
- Several complaints were filed against the film's actors, director, producers, and Netflix India's content head, alleging that the film promoted 'Love Jihad', disrespected Hindu deity Lord Ram, and hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus.
- The film was the second-most watched Netflix feature in India the day before its removal. The controversy highlights the increasing influence of Hindu nationalist groups on the depiction of Indian society in media.
- Zee Studios, the co-producers of the film, issued an apology and stated that the film would be edited to remove any offensive scenes before being re-released.
- This is not the first time that content on Netflix and other streaming platforms has faced backlash from right-wing Hindu groups in India. Similar controversies have led to the cancellation of several projects in the past.