Released on Netflix on June 21, 2024, “Maharaj” has stirred significant attention. Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra, known for films like “Kal Ho Naa Ho” and “Hichki,” the movie marks the Bollywood debut of Aamir Khan’s son, Junaid Khan, as Karsandas Mulji. Jaideep Ahlawat plays Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj.
The film faced opposition from the Vaishnav Pushtimarg sect, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, and Bajrang Dal, who sent a notice to the filmmakers when the release date was announced. Despite this, the Gujarat High Court dismissed the interim stay on the film, stating it did not target the sect.
Following its release, “Maharaj” received positive reviews, particularly for Junaid Khan’s acting and Jaideep Ahlawat’s transformation. The film is based on the 1862 Maharaj Libel Case, involving real-life figures Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj and journalist Karsandas Mulji.
Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj and Karsandas Mulji: The Real Story
Karsandas Mulji was a devotee of the Pushtimarg sect, founded by Vallabhacharya in the 16th century. By the late 19th century, the Pushtimarg sect had gained significant popularity in western India. Its spiritual leaders, known as ‘Maharajs,’ became widely revered throughout India. The followers had unwavering faith in their Maharajs and entrusted them with substantial power and influence.
Furthermore, the Maharajs soon claimed to be reincarnations of Lord Krishna, prompting many wealthy followers to donate large sums of money as a sign of respect and devotion. The Maharajs led lavish lifestyles and were frequently accused of sexual misconduct with their female followers. After years of observing and analyzing the Maharajs’ practices, Karsandas Mulji published a provocative article in 1861 that caused a nationwide uproar.
The Maharaj Libel Case of 1862
Mulji accused Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj of sexual misconduct in an 1861 article titled “Hinduono Asal Dharma ane Haalna Pakhandi Mato” (“The Primitive Religion of the Hindus and the Present Heterodox Opinions”). Maharaj sued Mulji for defamation, demanding Rs. 50,000 in damages. The trial revealed Maharaj’s syphilis and numerous allegations of sexual exploitation.
The case captivated the entire nation, and once it was revealed that Karsandas Mulji was the instigator, he received numerous death threats from anonymous sources. However, during the trial, missionary orientalist scholar John Wilson and Indian physician Bhau Daji examined Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj and discovered that he had syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection. Many witnesses also came forward, confirming that Maharaj had engaged in erotic escapades.
Significance of the Verdict
Additionally, several women claimed that Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj had sexually exploited them, which was enough to expose Maharaj’s dark reality to his devoted followers. After a series of hearings, the Maharaj Libel Case of 1862 concluded on April 22, 1862. The court ruled in favor of the courageous journalist Karsandas Mulji, awarding him Rs. 11,500 as compensation for the Rs. 14,000 he spent during the trial. The Maharaj Libel Case of 1862 is regarded as one of the most significant public trials in the history of India’s judiciary system.
Creative Liberties in Netflix’s “Maharaj”
While the film stays true to historical events, it includes fictional elements for dramatic effect. For example, it depicts Maharaj inappropriately touching Mulji’s fiancé, which is not confirmed by historical records.
“Maharaj” is now streaming on Netflix, and the film’s reception marks the beginning of Junaid Khan’s promising Bollywood career.
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