The filmmaker emphasized that Phule was crafted with care to avoid content that might be seen as disrespectful
Mahadevan uses the lead roles of Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa in this film to discuss necessary “corrective measures” for our society through the narrative of social reformers.
The film makers implemented 12 requested changes before Ananth Mahadevan's 'Phule' received a 'U' certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The recommended modifications required extending disclaimer duration to readable length and substituting subtitles from ‘caste’ to ‘varna’, replacing terms like ‘Mahar’ and ‘Mang’ with ‘aise choti choti’, altering the voiceover about Manu Maharaj's caste system and revising the dialogue from ‘jahan kshudro ko…jhadu bandkar chalna chahiye’ to ‘kya yahi hamari…sabse doori banake rakhani chahiye’.
Mahadevan revealed to The Indian Express News that the filmmakers completed all requested CBFC modifications to secure a 'U' certificate for ‘Phule’ ahead of its April 25 release date. Mahadevan explained that a ‘U’ certificate was crucial for Phule because the film should be accessible to audiences across all age groups.
The film which stars Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa explains how Mahadevan presents “the corrective measures” for our society through the narrative of these social reformers. At a tender age Jyotirao and Savitribai began their work in social reform movements. That’s something I find amazing,” added Mahadevan. Originally ‘Phule’ had a release date of April 11.
The film maintains complete fidelity to historical facts with no deviations from creative truth. Everything is based on facts and research. Mahadevan explains that reconstructing the behavior and lifestyles of these characters posed a substantial challenge for the film team. The director of ‘Mee Sindhutai Sapkal’ (2010) and ‘The Storyteller’ (2025) explained that B R Ambedkar wrote about Jyotirao and Savitribai because he esteemed them.
