Ahead of its release, Kajal Aggarwal and Shreyas Talpade’s The India Story has found itself at the centre of controversy. As the film awaits CBFC clearance and faces legal scrutiny over its portrayal of India’s agricultural sector, director Chettan DK has clarified that the board did not ask for any cuts and defended the film’s intent.
Chettan DK on The India Story certification
Addressing reports about the film’s certification, Chettan DK told India Today, “There were no such cuts made. The CBFC didn’t ask us to cut or remove anything. But yes, as a team with Shreyas (Talpade) and Kajal (Aggarwal Kitchlu), we brainstormed a few scenes and improvised them.”
The director also responded to the controversy surrounding the film and said, “If the subject is like this, people are bound to talk. Those who want to criticise will criticise, and those who want to stop it will try to stop it. But this is based on real facts and a real story. After watching the film, people will also understand how pesticides and chemicals should be used, and where the line should be drawn.”
“We haven’t targeted anyone. Our point is simply that these chemicals should be used only to the extent necessary. If you overuse them and end up putting other people’s health at risk, that’s wrong,” the director added.
The India Story in legal trouble
The India Story landed in legal trouble after a notice was served to the makers over concerns regarding its portrayal of India’s agricultural and food production sectors. The legal notice, issued on June 15 by advocate Hiranya Pandey on behalf of Bhavesh Sodha, proprietor of Agri Business Centre, has been addressed to Zee Studios, MIG Production & Studios LLP, and the film’s producers. The complainant alleges that the film’s teaser and promotional content contain misleading, defamatory, and scientifically unverified assertions related to Indian farming, dairy production, and poultry practices.
According to the notice, the film allegedly presents India’s agricultural ecosystem as a source of “slow poison” by highlighting issues such as pesticide usage, food adulteration, and rising cancer cases.
The film has been awaiting CBFC clearance ahead of its July 24 release. Sharing his concerns, director Chettan DK said the recent developments surrounding Satluj had made the wait even more difficult.
