An Odia film addressing the sensitive issue of religious conversions, Sanatani: Karma Hi Dharma, was released across Odisha on February 7 amid heavy security arrangements, following strong opposition from the Christian community. The film, produced by Bijay Kandoi and directed by Basudev Barad, opened in approximately 30 cinema halls across the state.
Smooth Release Despite Controversy
Despite apprehensions of protests, the film’s release proceeded without any reported disruptions. “There was no protest from any quarters, and the film has received a positive response from audiences in different parts of Odisha,” said producer Bijay Kandoi in a statement to PTI. He maintained that the film does not contain any content that could offend any religious group.
Lead actor Sambit Acharya urged the public to watch the film before forming opinions. “All people should watch the film and then express their views,” he stated.
Censor Board Certification and Title Change
The release of ‘Sanatani: Karma Hi Dharma’ came after initial hurdles with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The CBFC’s regional office in Cuttack had initially denied certification, prompting the filmmakers to approach the Mumbai office.
Eventually, the film was granted a UA certification after certain modifications were made. One of the key conditions set by the CBFC was to change the film’s title from ‘Hey Ram: Karma Hi Dharma’ to ‘Sanatani: Karma Hi Dharma’. Additionally, some scenes were edited to comply with the board’s recommendations, according to Acharya.
The screening of the film in Balasore and Bhadrak towns was carried out under strict security provided by the Odisha Police, according to Amresh, who oversaw the film’s distribution and screening.
Christian Organisations Condemn Film’s Release
The film’s release has been met with strong criticism from Christian organisations, particularly the National United Christian Forum (NUCF), which represents the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of India, the National Council of Churches in India, and the Evangelical Fellowship of India. The NUCF released a statement condemning the film, alleging that it portrays Jesus Christ, Christian doctrine, and the sacrament of Baptism in a derogatory manner.
“The film distorts the image of Jesus Christ and misrepresents religious conversion as a criminal activity,” the forum said in its statement. The NUCF further argued that the right to religious freedom, including the right to convert, is constitutionally protected in India and that any attempt to undermine this fundamental right is unconstitutional.
The Christian body also expressed concerns about the impact of the film on tribal communities, emphasising that any effort to divide them could be seen as an attempt to deprive them of their rights to land, water, and forests.
Allegations of Community Defamation and Legal Appeals
The controversy surrounding the film escalated when a Christian group in Kandhamal wrote to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, urging him to halt the release, citing fears that the movie could stoke communal tensions. One of the signatories, Martin Pradhan, stated, “Religion is a sensitive issue, and films like these can create tension between communities.”
In response, producer Kandoi reiterated that the film does not vilify any religion. “There is nothing controversial in the movie. We have simply portrayed reality as it is,” he asserted.
Themes Explored in the Film
The film, ‘Sanatani: Karma Hi Dharma’ reportedly explores the issue of religious conversions among tribal communities, with its trailer depicting cases of land grabs associated with conversions. In addition to religious conversions, the film also touches on social issues such as witchcraft, according to lead actor Acharya. “The film does not target any religion, but it highlights the reality of conversions,” he claimed.
With the controversy surrounding its subject matter, the film is expected to remain a focal point of debate in the coming weeks. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that screenings proceed without disruption.
