Punekars Organise Poetry Program After Censor Board’s ‘Who Is Dhasal?’ Question During ‘Chal Hallabol’ Certification

Days after a row erupted over a Censor Board official asking, “Who is Dhasal?” during certification of a film based on poet Namdeo Dhasal, a group in Pune organised a poetry program named ‘Namdeo Tujha Baap’ (Namdeo, Your Father) in response to the controversy surrounding the film Chal Halla Bol.

While the state witnessed politicians and people protesting the alleged insult of poet Namdeo Dhasal, Punekars chose a different form of protest. Instead of direct confrontation, they organised a gathering at Goodluck Chowk, where they showcased Dhasal’s articles and poems.

The event, titled ‘Namdeo Tujha Baap’ (Namdev, Your Father), turned the entire Chowk into a vibrant celebration of the poet’s legacy. The gathering was filled with passionate performances, as locals came together to honor Dhasal’s work and voice their displeasure in a peaceful and powerful manner.

“Who is Dhasal? We don’t know him”

The film, which highlights the life and movement of poet and Dalit Panther founder Namdeo Dhasal, portrays the struggles of the Dalit Panther and Yuva Kranti Dal movements.

The film was submitted to the Censor Board for certification, but the Board raised objections over Dhasal’s poems featured in the film. They claimed that the poems contained swear words and obscenities, demanding their removal. The situation escalated when a Censor Board official, upon learning about Dhasal, controversially stated, “Who is Dhasal? We don’t know him.”

This comment sparked outrage among Dalit activists and the people of Maharashtra, leading to widespread criticism.

Namdeo Dhasal’s wife and poet, Malika Amir Sheikh, had also voiced her displeasure over the incident. She has demanded that the arrogant official be suspended immediately, while calling on the government to address the matter. She questioned, “How can such a person be appointed to the Censor Board?”