Manoj Bajpayee starrer Netflix film ‘Ghooskhor Pandit’ produced by Neeraj Pandey has been surrounded by controversies since the teaser was released on Tuesday. Some netizens criticized the title of the film, alleging that it was derogatory towards the Brahmin community. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath ordered strict legal action against Netflix and the makers of ‘Ghooskhor Pandit’, after which an FIR was registered in Lucknow. It is alleged that the content insults caste identity and threatens social harmony.
Amidst this protest, Neeraj Pandey issued a statement saying that he has decided to remove all promotional materials for the time being. Now, actor Manoj Bajpayee has also broken his silence on this controversy, and said that he respects the sentiments and concerns shared by the public.
Manoj Bajpayee breaks silence on ‘Bribery Pandit’ controversy
Manoj Bajpayee said in his statement, “I respect the feelings and concerns expressed by people and take them very seriously =X. When you are a part of something that hurts some people, it forces you to stop and listen.”
He further added, “As an actor, I connect with any film through the character and the story that I am playing. For me, it was about portraying a flawed individual and his journey of self-realization. The aim was not to make any commentary about any community.
In my experience of working with Neeraj Pandey, I have always noticed a consistent seriousness and sensitivity in his approach to his films. Keeping in mind the public sentiments, the filmmakers have decided to remove the promotional material. “This shows how seriously these concerns are being taken.”
Neeraj Pandey also gave clarification
Earlier, film maker Neeraj Pandey had also given clarification on the entire controversy by sharing a note on X account. He wrote, “Our film is a fictional police drama, and the word “Pandat” is merely used as a colloquial name for a fictional character. The story focuses on the actions of an individual and his decisions, and does not comment on or represent any caste, religion or community. As a filmmaker, I approach my work with a deep responsibility, to tell stories that are thoughtful and respectful. Like my previous films, this film is also honest. Made with the intention and only to entertain the audience.
— Neeraj Pandey (@neerajpofficial) February 6, 2026
We understand that the title of the film may have offended some viewers, and we wholeheartedly acknowledge their sentiments. In view of these concerns, we have decided to remove all promotional material for the time being, as we believe that the film should be seen in its entirety and understood in that context, and not judged on the basis of incomplete parts. We hope to share this film with the audience soon.
About Neeraj Pandey’s Bribery Pandit
Ghooskhor Pandit is a thriller that tells the story of corrupt police officer Ajay Dixit (played by Manoj Bajpayee). A sudden incident spoils his plans and throws him into a series of events worse than expected. When he tries to discover the identity of a badly injured girl thrown from a moving car in the middle of Delhi, he finds himself in the middle of a global conspiracy. Directed by Ritesh Shah, Ghooskhor Pandat stars Manoj Bajpayee, Nushrat Bharucha, Saqib Saleem, Akshay Oberoi, Divya Dutta, Shraddha Das and Kiku Sharda. It has been produced by Neeraj Pandey.
