Delhi High Court Dismisses Plea Against ‘The Taj Story’, Upholds Artistic Freedom

Mumbai, Oct 2025 : The Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed against the upcoming film The Taj Story, calling it an unnecessary interference with creative expression and reiterating that artistic freedom cannot be curtailed without valid grounds.

The plea had sought an immediate hearing to halt or regulate the release of the historical drama, alleging that the movie misrepresents historical facts and could disrupt communal harmony ahead of its nationwide release on October 31. However, the court declined to list the matter for urgent hearing, observing that it would be taken up in due course as per normal procedure.

According to sources, the court emphasized that freedom of artistic expression is a constitutional right and should not be restricted merely on the basis of unsubstantiated fears or presumptions. The bench reportedly noted that the petitioner failed to present any compelling evidence to justify judicial intervention.

The film, directed by Tushar Amrish Goel and produced by CA Suresh Jha, explores the story behind the Taj Mahal through what the makers describe as a “researched and balanced perspective.”

Responding to the controversy, director Tushar Amrish Goel said that the film was the outcome of six months of extensive historical research involving expert consultations and verified archival material. “The Taj Story is not based on imagination or fictional accounts. Our team worked meticulously to ensure accuracy and authenticity. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) thoroughly examined the film and approved it only after being satisfied with its content,” Goel said in a statement.

He added that the film was never intended to provoke or inflame sentiments. “Our purpose is to encourage informed discussion, not division. I deeply respect the Delhi High Court’s decision to uphold the spirit of creative freedom. Cinema must remain a space for truth, research, and fearless storytelling,” he said.

Producer CA Suresh Jha echoed the director’s sentiments, dismissing the allegations as unfounded. “All the claims made in the PIL are completely baseless. We have made this film with honesty, responsibility, and respect for history. Our only objective is to bring a story that inspires curiosity, dialogue, and pride — not conflict,” he said.

The PIL, filed by advocate Shakeel Abbas and BJP leader Rajnish Sing, urged the Central Government and the Central Board of Film Certification to re-examine the film’s clearance. The petition alleged that The Taj Story draws from speculative theories about the origins of the Taj Mahal and requested the inclusion of disclaimers to prevent public unrest, particularly in Agra, where the monument stands.

Despite these concerns, the Delhi High Court stood firm in its decision to protect artistic liberty, signaling that films already cleared by the statutory certification authority should not face arbitrary judicial obstruction.

The Taj Story features an ensemble cast including Paresh Rawal, Zakir Hussain, Amruta Khanvilkar, Sneha Wagh, and Namit Das, and is slated for nationwide release on October 31.