Delhi High Court Dismisses PIL Against The Taj Story, Upholds Creative Freedom
Mumbai, Oct 29 (TheTrendingPeople.com) — The Delhi High Court has refused to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking to halt or regulate the release of the upcoming film The Taj Story, calling the plea an unnecessary attempt to interfere with artistic expression.
The court’s decision clears the way for the film’s nationwide release on October 31, reinforcing the principle that creative freedom cannot be curtailed without substantial justification.
Court Refuses Urgent Listing of the PIL
During the hearing on Wednesday, the petitioner sought an immediate hearing, arguing that the movie allegedly misrepresents historical facts and might disrupt communal harmony ahead of its release.
However, the court declined to list the matter urgently, noting that there was no basis for extraordinary intervention and that the issue would be addressed in due course as per the regular judicial process.
A source told IANS that the Delhi High Court observed that creative expression and artistic freedom deserve protection and should not be restricted unless there is clear evidence of harm or malintent.
Filmmakers Respond: “Truth, Not Controversy”
Following the ruling, The Taj Story’s director Tushar Amrish Goel welcomed the court’s decision, emphasizing that the film is grounded in factual research rather than speculation.
“The Taj Story is not built on imagination or hearsay,” Goel said. “It is the result of six months of extensive research, expert consultations, and verified historical references. The CBFC examined every aspect of the film before granting certification.”
Goel added that the film’s intent was to educate and provoke informed discussion, not controversy.
“Our intent was never to provoke or create communal tension, but to present a researched perspective that encourages informed dialogue,” he said. “I deeply respect the Delhi High Court’s decision to stand with the film and uphold the spirit of creative freedom. Cinema should remain a space for truth, research, and fearless storytelling.”
Producer Denounces Allegations as “Baseless”
Film producer CA Suresh Jha also responded strongly to the PIL’s claims, calling them “completely baseless.”
“All the allegations filed against The Taj Story are unfounded. We have made this film with full honesty, responsibility, and respect for our history,” Jha stated. “Our only aim is to bring the real story to the world — one that sparks curiosity, dialogue, and pride, not division.”
He reiterated that the film underwent full scrutiny by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) before receiving clearance for release.
Details of the PIL
The PIL, filed by advocate Shakeel Abbas and BJP leader Rajnish Singh, requested the court to direct the Central government and the CBFC to re-examine the certification issued to The Taj Story.
The petitioners alleged that the film relied on speculative theories that could mislead viewers and demanded the inclusion of disclaimers to prevent public unrest, especially in Agra, where the Taj Mahal is located.
The court, however, found no urgent grounds for interference, reaffirming that concerns about creative interpretation should be addressed through dialogue rather than censorship.
About The Taj Story
The Taj Story is a historical drama featuring Paresh Rawal, Zakir Hussain, Amruta Khanvilkar, Sneha Wagh, and Namit Das in pivotal roles. The film explores lesser-known perspectives surrounding the creation and legacy of the Taj Mahal, combining historical depth with cinematic storytelling.
The movie, produced by Suresh Jha and directed by Tushar Amrish Goel, is set for a nationwide release on October 31.
The Delhi High Court’s ruling reinforces India’s long-standing legal and cultural tradition of safeguarding freedom of artistic expression, a cornerstone of the country’s creative ecosystem.
By dismissing the plea, the court has sent a clear message — cinema, as a form of art and dialogue, must not be stifled by speculative claims.
As the countdown to the film’s release begins, The Taj Story continues to generate nationwide curiosity, both for its historical theme and for standing at the intersection of art, truth, and free expression.