Manoj Muntashir

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 20 : In a fiery response to filmmaker Anurag Kashyap's alleged casteist remarks, renowned lyricist and poet Manoj Muntashir Shukla has strongly condemned the filmmaker, accusing him of attacking the Brahmin community.The issue stems from an earlier social media post by Kashyap, which criticised the ongoing controversy surrounding his upcoming film 'Phule', a biopic of social reformer Jyotirao Phule.Taking to his official X account, Manoj Muntashir Shukla delivered a direct message to Kashyap in a video saying, "If you have less income, then you have to control your expenses, and if you have less knowledge, then you have to control your words. Anurag Kashyap, you have less income and less knowledge, so control both."He further admonished Kashyap for his alleged remarks, adding, "You don't have enough water in your body to pollute the entire legacy of Brahmins."In his message, Shukla challenged Kashyap to name a Brahmin figure from history whom he believed deserved to be insulted, listing prominent figures such as Acharya Chanakya, Peshwa Bajirao, and the legendary poet Tansen, among others."The proud tradition of Brahmins will not end. I, a Brahmin, give you an open challenge. Choose one name from the 21 I have listed and let me know," Shukla said.#AnuragKashyap !#Brahmin#BrahminGenes#Hindu#ManojMuntashir#ManojMuntashirShukla Manoj Muntashir Shukla (@manojmuntashir) April 19, 2025Shukla's post went on to describe Brahmins as the "honour of India" and denounced Kashyap's comments as "heartless thoughts."He added, "A Brahmin may forgive your heartless thoughts, but the Hindu society will never forgive you for dividing the country."The poet further expressed his willingness to pray for Kashyap's "sick mind" and offered to take responsibility for any treatment Kashyap may need."#AnuragKashyap ko meri khuli chetawani," he captioned the video. The controversy has escalated as police complaints have been filed against Kashyap. On Saturday, a complaint was lodged in Indore by Anoop Shukla, accusing Kashyap of hurting the social and religious sentiments of the Brahmin community.Vijay Singh Sisodia, the Police Station In-Charge of MG Road PS, confirmed that an investigation is underway.Advocate Ashish Rai has also demanded swift action from the Mumbai Police Commissioner, emphasizing that Kashyap's statements fall under the category of hate speech."There is a citation from the Supreme Court which mandates action in cases of hate speech on social media. These statements are highly condemnable," Rai said, following the filing of a complaint with the Mumbai Police.Kashyap issued an apology on Friday night, clarifying that his statement had been taken out of context.He acknowledged the threats his family and friends had received but maintained that his apology was specifically for the misinterpretation of his words, not the content of the original post."This is my apology, not for my post, but for that one line taken out of context and the brewing hatred... So, if it's an apology you're looking for, then this is my apology," Kashyap wrote.He also urged the Brahmin community to refrain from targeting his family members and to direct their anger toward him alone."Brahmins, please spare the women even the scriptures teach this much decency," he added.

Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 12 : Saints in Ayodhya have voiced their support for lyricist Manoj Muntashir's suggestion to build toilets over the grave of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in India. Saint Vishnu Das, Mahant Sitaram Das, and Acharya Paramhans are among those backing Muntashir's proposal. They stated that cruel invaders like Aurangzeb should not have a tomb or shrine in India.While speaking to ANI, Saint Vishnu Das from Ayodhya called Auragzeb a tyrant ruler who was bent on destroying the Sanatan Dharma. He said, "We are supporting his words a lot because Aurangzeb was bent on destroying Sanatan Dharma. Our Manoj lyricist has said that toilets should be built; it is very good to construct a toilet in his grave."Acharya Paramhans Maharaj expressed his willingness to cooperate financially if toilets were constructed on Aurangzeb's grave, calling it a way to eradicate a "big stigma" from India.While talking to ANI, Paramhans Maharaj said, "Manoj Muntashir has said a thing by which a big stigma of India will be eradicated. AurangzebAurangzeb killed the seventh guru of the Sikhs. He tormented Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj for forty days. Therefore, we asked him to remove Aurangzeb's grave but he has suggested better that toilets should be built there. Therefore, Aurangzeb was a stigma on the earth, there was a stigma for Islam, a stigma for humanity. If a toilet is built on his grave, then we will definitely cooperate financially, and I will inaugurate it." Mahant Sitaram Das of Saket Bhawan temple emphasized that invaders like Aurangzeb shouldn't have any kind of tomb or grave in India, citing the country's constitutional and Hindu values."Certainly invaders like Aurangzeb do not need any kind of mazar or his tomb in India. This India is a constitutional country and a country of Sanatanis and Hinduism. There is no need for radical jihadist and terrorist ideology in this country. Why do such attackers need their graves in India? Then there should be a toilet built there," said Mahant Sitaram Das. Manoj Muntashir's suggestion comes amid a political row over whether Aurangzeb's grave should be razed. Muntashir argued that destroying the grave isn't necessary and instead proposed building toilets, symbolizing India's commitment to cleanliness and hygiene under the Swachh Bharat Mission.The 'Adipurush' lyricist, Manoj Muntashir, spoke to ANI on Tuesday and said, "If Aurangzeb's grave is a place for one to be proud of, then they need to think again about their patriotism."The lyricist said, "Aurangzeb's grave is a monument of national shame. Which is there in that place that any Indian should be proud of?... If Aurangzeb's grave is a place for one to be proud of, then they need to think again about their patriotism.... "He added, "When we were fighting a legal battle for the Ram Temple, they had given us advice that Ram is present in every particle, so a hospital or a school should be built there instead... I want to repeat what they said... There is no need to destroy Aurangzeb's grave. Instead, a toilet should be built on it. Swachh Bharat Mission is going on... What can be a better place than Aurangzeb's grave to build toilets in the country?..."He also took to X to share a video and captioned it, "Aurangzeb's grave should not be removed, why? Let me tell you!"Earlier, Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar suspended Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi for the entire duration of the ongoing budget session over his remarks on Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.Azmi had reportedly said that Aurangzeb was not a "cruel administrator" and "built many temples". He added that the battle between the Mughal emperor and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was for state administration and not about Hindus and Muslims.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 11 : Amid the ongoing political row over whether the grave of Aurangzeb should be razed, lyricist and screenwriter Manoj Muntashir has said that there was no need to destroy the Mughal emperor's grave and that the government should build toilets on it. Manoj Muntashir spoke to ANI and shared that Aurangzeb's grave is not a place to be proud of but a source of national shame. Earlier, Samajwadi Party's Maharashtra President Abu Azmi had reportedly termed Aurangzeb a good administrator which triggered a political outrage."If Aurangzeb's grave is a place for one to be proud of, then they need to think again about their patriotism..." the 'Adipurush' lyricist said.The lyricist said, "Aurangzeb's grave is a monument of national shame. Which is there in that place that any Indian should be proud of?... If Aurangzeb's grave is a place for one to be proud of, then they need to think again about their patriotism.... "He added, "When we were fighting a legal battle for the Ram Temple, they had given us advice that Ram is present in every particle, so a hospital or a school should be built there instead... I want to repeat what they said... There is no need to destroy Aurangzeb's grave. Instead, a toilet should be built on it. Swachh Bharat Mission is going on... What can be a better place than Aurangzeb's grave to build toilets in the country?..."He also took to X to share a video and captioned it, "Aurangzeb's grave should not be removed, why? Let me tell you!"Earlier on Wednesday, Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar suspended Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi for the entire duration of the ongoing budget session over his remarks on Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.Azmi had reportedly said that Aurangzeb was not a "cruel administrator" and "built many temples". He added that the battle between the Mughal emperor and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was for state administration and not about Hindus and Muslims. Maharashtra Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Abu Asim Azmi on Friday accused the media of "maligning" him by "misrepresenting" his statement on Aurangzeb, requesting Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar to revoke his suspension. In a letter addressed to Narwekar, Azmi maintained that he was not at fault in this matter."The media tried to malign me by misrepresenting my statement, so I humbly request that my suspension be withdrawn as I am not at fault in this matter," he said.The Maharashtra SP chief clarified that he was followed by mediapersons, who asked him for his reaction to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma invoking Aurangzeb while criticising Congress leader Rahul Gandhi."On March 3, media representatives followed me while leaving the hall. Outside the hall, they asked me the question that the Chief Minister of Assam compared Rahul Gandhi to Aurangzeb. In this context, I quoted Meena Bhargava's article and said he helped the temples," Azmi said."No statement has been made about Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. I showed respect for them. My image has been tarnished by attributing to me words which I didn't speak," the letter read.He highlighted that his statements about Aurangzeb were based on "historical facts" and that India was a golden sparrow during that time. He said that Aurangzeb and Chhatrapati Shivaji were not fighting for religion, but for power and land."During the time of Aurangzeb, India's borders reached Brahmadesh and Afghanistan and people had a lot of gold in their homes and there was a golden age in India. I have said that Aurangzeb was a good administrator while quoting the above historical facts. Aurangzeb and Chhatrapati Shivaji or Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj were not fighting for religion but for power and land. I do not believe in caste and religion discrimination," Azmi said."I have not made any objectionable statement about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. I have great respect for both the above great men," he added.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 20 : John Abraham is gearing up for the release of his next project 'The Diplomat'. Days after announcing the project, the makers on Thursday unveiled the film's song 'Bharat'. Paying homage to the original composition by A. R. Rahman, Bharat is a moving rendition by Manan Bhardwaj, penned by Manoj Muntashir, and brought to life by the legendary Hariharan. Have a look at the trackView this post on InstagramA post shared by tseriesfilms (@tseriesfilms)The film is directed by Shivam Nair. The recently launched trailer sets the stage for an intense political thriller starring John Abraham in the lead role. The film highlights the power of negotiation and tactics rather than war in a high-stakes mission. The film's ensemble cast includes actors Sadia Khateeb, Sharib Hashmi, Revathy, and Kumud Mishra in prominent roles. As per the trailer, John embarks on a life-threatening mission to rescue the 'Daughter of India' from captivity. While sharing his views about the film through a press note, John said."Diplomacy is a battlefield where words carry more weight than weapons. Playing J.P. Singh allowed me to explore a world where power is defined by intellect, resilience, and quiet heroism. Uzma's story is a testament to India's strength and courage, and I'm proud to bring this inspiring journey to life on screen."Director Shivam called the film a tribute to the unsung heroes who wield the weapons of strategy and patience to protect their nation. In a press note, he stated, "The Diplomat is a tribute to the unsung heroes who wield strategy and patience to protect their nation. Through J.P. Singh's story, we've captured the art of diplomacy--where tact triumphs over aggression--and John's performance perfectly embodies this spirit of resilience and strength."

New Delhi [India], August 31 : Kangana Ranaut-starrer 'Emergency' has been embroiled in controversies for some time now. From facing backlash from several Sikh groups to not getting a green signal from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) yet, 'Emergency' is clearly having a tough time ahead of its release. However, amid the uproar, the film's team is quite optimistic. On Saturday, during the music launch of the film in the national capital, lyricist Manoj Muntashir spoke with ANI and assured that "Emergency is an honest film.""Emergency is a good and honest film and those who doubt that it will show only one side, there is nothing like that. I have got the opportunity to write songs for this film," he said. The film, a biographical political thriller, delves into the life of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who imposed a 21-month emergency period from 1975 to 1977.Kangana essays the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the film, which also stars late Satish Kaushik, Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade and Mahima Chaudhry. On Friday, Kangana, who is also a politician, took to social media and posted a video in which she claimed that the censor board has been receiving death threats regarding a few scenes in the film. "There are rumours that our film 'Emergency' has got a censor certificate. It is not true. In fact, our film was cleared earlier but its certification has been stopped because of several threats," Kangana said. "There is pressure being put on us to remove certain scenes, such as the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the Punjab riots, and more. Now, I don't know what else to show. What are we supposed to do--blackout the film during these scenes? This is unbelievable to me, and I am deeply sorry for the current state of thinking in this country," she added. Produced by Zee Studios and Manikarnika Films, the film is set against the backdrop of one of India's most tumultuous political periods and promises to be a portrayal of historical events. It is scheduled to be released on September 6, 2024.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 24 : 'Sarfira' has been creating excitement among fans following the release of its trailer. Makers of Akshay Kumar starrer on Monday released the first track of the film, 'Maar Udi'.Sung by Yadu Krishnan, Sugandh Shekar, Haston Rodrigues, and Abhijith Rao, penned by Manoj Muntashir Shukla and composed by G.V Prakash Kumar. 'Maar Udi' embodies the spirit of resilience and courage.Taking to X handle, Akshay treated fans with the song video and captioned it, "When life throws a challenge, just look it in the eye and #MaarUdi !! Song out now. It's time to be #Sarfira See you in theatres. July 12." , When life throws a challenge, just look it in the eye and #MaarUdi !! Song out now : Its time to be #SarfiraSee you in theatres.July 12. Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) June 24, 2024The video opens with Vir (Akshay) being thrown out of a building by security guards. And Paresh Rawal's character is heard saying, "This aviation business is not everyone's cup of tea, Vir then tries to enter a science fair to talk to the President of India and fails."Directed by national award winner Sudha Kongara, known for her critically acclaimed works like 'Irudhi Suttru' and 'Soorarai Pottru', the film promises to deliver a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of India's startup culture and aviation industry.Commenting on the song release, G.V. Prakash said, "Creating the music for 'Sarfira' has been a truly enriching experience. 'Maar Udi' is a track that captures the heart and soul of the movie - it's about rising above challenges and believing in oneself. We are excited for audiences to feel the energy and inspiration this song brings."Adding to this, lyricist Manoj Muntashir Shukla shared, "Writing the lyrics for 'Maar Udi' was a journey of its own. The words reflect the indomitable spirit of dreaming big and overcoming obstacles, which is the essence of 'Sarfira.' I hope listeners find as much inspiration in the song as I did in writing it."Recently, makers unveiled the trailer.The trailer of 'Sarfira' showcases Akshay Kumar in a role that has captivated audiences, portraying an underdog determined to challenge socio-economic barriers and make flying accessible to all.His performance has received praise, with director Suriya expressing his gratitude on social media. Suriya, who makes a guest appearance in the film, shared his admiration for Akshay Kumar's dedication to bringing this inspiring story to the screen.'Sarfira' is not just a film; it's an ode to the dreams that keep us awake," remarked Akshay Kumar in an Instagram post unveiling the trailer.The narrative follows his character's journey from debt-ridden beginnings to visionary entrepreneurship, navigating obstacles with resilience and innovation.Scheduled for release on July 12, 2024, 'Sarfira' features a stellar cast including Radhika Madan, Paresh Rawal, and Seema Biswas alongside Akshay Kumar.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the makers of 'Main Atal Hoon' starring Pankaj Tripathi dropped the first song from the film 'Desh Phele.'Taking to Instagram, Pankaj Tripathi treated fans with the first song on this special occasion.The song takes into the world of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a poet who rewrote history. Sung by Jubin Nautiyal, the heart-touching lyrics are penned by Manoj Muntashir and composed by Payal Dev.'Main Atal Hoon' stars Pankaj Tripathi as Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, taking us through his extraordinary life!Recently, the makers launched the trailer of the film, which revolves around the life of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.During the trailer launch, he opened up about his interest in politics and how he prepared for Atal Bihari Vajpayee's biopic. He also recalled a funny anecdote from his college days when he joined Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) during his college days."I was in a youth wing. I have participated in andolans. I was even jailed for a week! Toh main uss raaste pe nikal chuka tha.hen I realised that the path of politics is full of thorns. Hence, I took a turn and started developing an interest in street theatre. There was Kaildas Rangalaya, Patna where I enrolled myself. Mujhe laga ki yeh behtar hai. Yahaan kam se kam bol ke acting hoti hai ki 'main acting kar raha hoon'," Pankaj quipped.The film 'Main Atal Hoon' is directed by Ravi Jadhav and will be released on January 19, 2024.Pankaj said that he is honoured to bring Atal Bihari Vajpayee's story to silver screen."More than the film, the journey of playing Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee is really close to my heart. The man is truly a legend, and we are honoured to bring his inspiring story to the world. I hope audiences appreciate our efforts to bring in the legacy of Atal ji onto the big screens," he said.The film is backed by Bhanushali Studios Limited and Legend Studios, Vinod Bhanushali, Sandeep Singh, Sam Khan and Kamlesh Bhanushali.

maiN sviikaar krtaa huuN ki ph'ilm aadipuruss se jn bhaavnaayeN aaht huiiN haiN. apne sbhii bhaaiyoN-bhnoN, bdd'oN, puujy saadhu-sNtoN aur shrii raam ke bhktoN se, maiN haath jodd' kr, binaa shrt kssmaa maaNgtaa huuN. bhgvaan bjrNg blii hm sb pr kRpaa kreN, hmeN ek aur attuutt rhkr apne pvitr snaatn aur mhaan desh kii Manoj Muntashir Shukla (@manojmuntashir) July 8, 2023His post evoked mixed reactions from netizens as many feel that it is now too late to seek an apology."You are too late to apologise," a social media user commented."Badi jaldi Maafi maang liye sahab But thik hai, Der aaye durust aaye," another one wrote.Directed by Om Raut, 'Adipurush', which is an adaptation of the epic Ramayana, has drawn heavy criticism post-release. The film stars Prabhas as Lord Ram, Kriti as Goddess Sita, Sunny Singh as Laxman, and Saif Ali Khan as Ravana.From critics to reviewers, many expressed disappointment over certain dialogues in the film. Among the dialogues over which the makers have drawn flak are 'Marega Bete', 'Bua Ka Bagicha Hain Kya' and 'Jalegi Tere Baap Ki'.In the wake of such flak, the makers of 'Adipurush' revamped the dialogues.Amid the row, Manoj had requested protection, citing a threat to his life. Mumbai Police has provided him security and said that they are investigating the matter.All India Cine Workers Association also wrote a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Mumbai Police, demanding the registration of a case against the producer, director, and writer of the film.In fact, the criticism and controversy surrounding Adipurush brought the 1987 Ramayan back to the small screen as disappointed audiences compared the film to the hit show.

View this post on InstagramA post shared by VarunDhawan (@varundvn) 'Tumhe Kitna Pyaar Karte', composed by Mithoon, with lyrics penned by Manoj Muntashir, in the soulful voice of Arijit Singh.The teaser of 'Bawaal' gave a window to the endearing and budding romance between Ajay (Varun Dhawan) and Nisha (Janhvi Kapoor), as they discover love in this etching and timeless romantic ballad.As soon as the teaser was released, Varun and Janhvi's fans and industry friends flooded the comment section with heart and fire emojis.The movie is directed by Nitesh Tiwari, and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala's Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment in collaboration with Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and Nitesh Tiwari's Earthsky Pictures.Paired on-screen for the first time, Varun Dhawan plays Ajay Dixit, a school teacher in Lucknow, idolized by his students, and admired by everyone in town; and Janhvi Kapoor as Nisha, a bright, beautiful yet simple girl, whose only hope is to find her one true love. But love is never easy, and has to passage through a war of its own! Shot in India and multiple international locales, Bawaal has a meaningful message, which is sure to resonate with audiences worldwide.'Bawaal' will premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and across 200 countries and territories from July 21.Apart from this, Varun is all set to work with director Atlee and the duo will enthral their fans with a new movie titled 'VD18'. The film will be out on May 31, 2024. It is written and directed by Kalees and produced by Murad Khetani and Priya Atlee.Varun will also be seen in 'Citadel' alongside actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu.

Adipurush', saying "they should be jailed for this".Speaking exclusively to ANI, Manoj Desai said, "Strict action should be taken against these people (makers of Adipurush). The film has hurt the sentiments of Hindus. All those involved in the making of the film, especially the writer, Manoj Muntashir, should be sent to jail."Directed by Om Raut, 'Adipurush', which is which is an adaptation of the epic Ramayana, has drawn heavy criticism post release.From critics to reviewers, many voiced misgivings over certain dialogues in the film. Among the dialogues over which the makers have drawn flak are Marega bete', 'Bua ka bagicha hain kya' and 'Jalegi tere baap ki'.The film stars Prabhas as Lord Ram, Kriti as Goddess Sita, Sunny Singh as Laxman, and Saif Ali Khan as Ravana, the mythical hydra-headed demon king in the epic.On the losses theatre owners have incurred as the film failed to live up to to its pre-release hype and got embroiled in controversies, he said, "Viewers have rejected this film. Yesterday, two of our shows were cancelled and today, our matinee shows had to be cancelled due to poor word-of-mouth and response. This movie will be removed from theatres very soon and we didn't think it will come to this. Not just ours, the owners of all theatres where the film has been released have suffered losses."On the makers amending the contentious dialogues in the face of criticism, Desai told ANI, "They have made some changes to the dialogues, but it's too little too late. Changing dialogues in a film after release does not make sense."Earlier, the mayor of Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, Balendra Shah, had enforced a ban on Indian movies following the 'Adipurush' dialogue row. Less than an hour after the Kathmandu mayor's decision, Pokhara Mayor Dhanraj Acharya also sent letters to three movie theatres in the city to halt the screening of all Indian movies. With orders from the mayors of both these cities, theatre owners removed the film.