Anurag Kashyap issues apology as daughter gets rape threats amid backlash

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has issued a public apology after facing intense trolling and online abuse over a recent social media post defending his upcoming film Phule. The backlash escalated to rape and death threats directed at his daughter, family members, and colleagues.

The controversy began after Kashyap responded to critics of Phule, a biopic on social reformer Jyotirao Phule. One of his remarks alluding to a higher Indian caste went viral and sparked outrage, resulting in legal complaints and widespread condemnation.

Taking to Instagram, Kashyap clarified that his apology was not for his opinion, but for a particular line that was taken out of context.

“This is my apology—not for my post, but for that one line and the hatred it has triggered,” he wrote. “No opinion is worth your daughter, family, friends, and colleagues getting rape and death threats from the so-called gatekeepers of tradition.”

Kashyap has previously spoken about the abuse his daughter Aliyah has received due to his outspoken social and political views. The filmmaker reiterated that such attacks on family members are a painful cost of voicing dissent in today’s environment.

Phule, directed by Ananth Mahadevan, was originally set to release on April 11 but faced delays after protests from certain community groups. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) demanded several edits, including the removal of caste-related references. The film is now scheduled for release on April 25.

In a recent interview with Gulf News, Kashyap further explained the climate of hostility faced by artists in India.

“The space for dissent and diverse narratives is shrinking. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to tell stories that challenge the status quo,” he said.

“I stand by my beliefs, but it’s disheartening when my family becomes a target.”

Despite the controversy, Kashyap reaffirmed his commitment to socially relevant cinema:

“Audiences are craving genuine stories that reflect real issues. It’s our responsibility as filmmakers to deliver that.”