Adipurush writer Manoj Muntashir acknowledges mistakes; says the film failed to ‘connect with audiences’

Muntashir elaborated on the film’s original vision, explaining that while the intention was to resonate with the “youngsters and children”, it fell short of connecting with the audience.

The acclaimed lyricist and film writer revealed that the makers of Adipurush aimed to communicate the idea that a leader transcends conventional notions, portraying that one can embody qualities akin to Lord Ram and Bajrangbali, not limited to the stereotypical Captain America. Muntashir admitted that their oversight might have been confusing simplicity with oversimplification, acknowledging, “We became very much simplistic.”

The film faced severe criticism for its dialogues, with the infamous Kapda tere baap ka. Tel tere baap ka. Aag bhi tere baap ki. Toh jalegi bhi tere baap ki line sparking outrage. Muntashir shed light on the team’s perspective, admitting that they viewed it through the lens of Ramleela, but acknowledged the oversight. He asserted that he couldn’t affirm the film's proper execution. “I did not make the film; the sooner people understand this, the better,” he conceded.

Muntashir had previously taken to the microblogging platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to express an unconditional apology, stating that he accepts “public sentiments” were hurt by the film. After initially defending his work in the film, he tweeted, “With folded hands, I apologize unconditionally to all my brothers and sisters, elders, respected saints, and devotees of Shri Ram.”

Adipurush, rooted in the Hindu epic Ramayana, stirred controversy for allegedly distorting the narrative. The portrayal of characters such as Ravana and Lord Hanuman, coupled with contentious dialogues, left viewers disappointed. Despite efforts to modify the controversial lines, the film faced legal action, with a plea filed in the Supreme Court to revoke its CBFC certification, which was ultimately rejected.