Junaid Khan Maharaj Review : The much-anticipated Netflix film ‘Maharaj’ has finally premiered, marking the debut of Bollywood star Aamir Khan’s son, Junaid Khan. Directed by Karan P Malhotra, the film is based on the life of journalist Karsan Das Mulji, who used his pen to challenge the religious authorities of his time.
Aamir Khan’s Son Junaid Steals the Show in His Stunning Netflix Debut: Maharaj Review Inside!
Controversy and Release
The film’s release was embroiled in controversy when members of a Hindu group filed a petition in court to stop its release, alleging that it offended religious sentiments. The protests even led to a temporary suspension of the film’s release for a week. However, on June 21, the Gujarat High Court overturned the decision, allowing the film to premiere as planned. The court, after viewing the film, found nothing objectionable that would hurt religious feelings.
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Yash Raj Films’ Statement
Following the court’s ruling, production house Yash Raj Films (YRF) expressed their gratitude to the judiciary. They highlighted that the film celebrates Karsan Das Mulji, a significant social reformer in India. Their statement read:
“We are grateful to the judiciary for allowing the release of Maharaj, a film that celebrates one of the most important social reformers of our country, Karsan Das Mulji. Karsan, a hero and a devout Vaishnav, stood for righteousness, protected women, and safeguarded his community and faith. Maharaj is a tribute to his indomitable fighting spirit and his courage to be on the right side of history.”
Plot and Cast
‘Maharaj’ dramatizes the significant ‘1862 Maharaj Libel Case’, where British judges mediated between religious conservatism and progressive reform within colonial India. The film features a stellar cast including Jaideep Ahlawat, Shalini Pandey, Sharvari Wagh, and Jay Upadhyay alongside Junaid Khan. Inspired by Saurabh Shah’s 2013 Gujarati novel, the movie provides a compelling look into the struggles and triumphs of Karsan Das Mulji.
Critical Reception
Filmfare rated the movie 3.5 out of 5, praising it as a stellar launchpad for Junaid Khan. Reviewer Devesh Sharma described it as “a film that combines strong performances, a compelling story, and proficient direction.”
Audience Reactions
Netizens were quick to react following the film’s release on Netflix. Many users took to social media to praise Junaid Khan’s acting. One user commented, “Sorry Aamir, I think I will admire your son Junaid for a while.” Another shared, “In the initial scenes I was like oh he smiles like his father & he is being little clumsy but later on he made me forget all these and especially in the scenes with Jaideep Ahlawat and in the emotional breakdown scenes, Junaid’s acting sparked like anything! Too good!”
Conclusion
‘Maharaj’ has not only introduced a new talent to Bollywood but also brought an important historical narrative to the forefront. Junaid Khan’s debut has been well-received by both critics and audiences, indicating a promising career ahead. Despite the initial controversy, the film’s release has sparked meaningful discussions about history, religion, and social reform.
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FAQs about Junaid Khan’s Debut in Netflix’s Maharaj
1. Who is Junaid Khan?
- Junaid Khan is the son of Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and has made his acting debut in the Netflix film ‘Maharaj’.
2. What is the movie ‘Maharaj’ about?
- ‘Maharaj’ is based on the life of journalist Karsan Das Mulji, who fought against religious atrocities using the power of his pen.
3. Who directed ‘Maharaj’?
- The film is directed by Karan P Malhotra.
4. Who are the other main actors in ‘Maharaj’?
- The main cast includes Jaideep Ahlawat, Shalini Pandey, Sharvari Wagh, and Jay Upadhyay.
5. What controversy surrounded the release of ‘Maharaj’?
- A Hindu group filed a petition to stop the film’s release, claiming it hurt religious sentiments. The release was temporarily suspended for a week.
6. What was the court’s ruling on the controversy?
- The Gujarat High Court lifted the suspension, ruling that the film did not hurt religious feelings.
7. What inspired the film ‘Maharaj’?
- The film is inspired by Saurabh Shah’s 2013 Gujarati novel and dramatizes the 1862 Maharaj Libel Case.
8. When was ‘Maharaj’ originally set to release?
- The film was initially set to release on June 14.
9. What rating did Filmfare give ‘Maharaj’?
- Filmfare gave the film a 3.5 out of 5 rating.
10. How did netizens react to Junaid Khan’s performance?
- Netizens praised Junaid Khan’s acting, with many expressing admiration for his performance.
11. What was Junaid Khan’s character in the movie?
- Junaid Khan plays the role of Karsan Das Mulji, a journalist who stands against religious atrocities.
12. What kind of feedback did Junaid Khan receive from viewers?
- Junaid received positive feedback, with viewers commending his ability to make them forget his father’s legacy and appreciate his own talent.
13. How did the film perform critically?
- The film was well-received for its strong performances, compelling story, and proficient direction.
14. What did Aamir Khan say about his son’s debut?
- While Aamir Khan has not made a public statement, the positive reviews suggest pride in Junaid’s performance.
15. Who was Karsan Das Mulji?
- Karsan Das Mulji was a journalist and social reformer known for challenging religious conservatism in colonial India.
16. What themes does ‘Maharaj’ explore?
- The film explores themes of social reform, freedom of the press, and the fight against religious conservatism.
17. What is the significance of the 1862 Maharaj Libel Case?
- The case was significant for highlighting the conflict between progressive reform and religious conservatism in colonial India.
18. How did Yash Raj Films respond to the court’s verdict?
- YRF expressed gratitude to the judiciary and highlighted the film’s tribute to Karsandas Mulji’s courage and righteousness.
19. What challenges did the production face due to the controversy?
- The production faced a temporary suspension and calls for a boycott but ultimately overcame these challenges with the court’s ruling.
20. Why is ‘Maharaj’ considered an important film?
- ‘Maharaj’ is considered important for its portrayal of a historical figure who fought for social justice and for launching a new star in Bollywood, Junaid Khan.
