PUNE, 22 NOV. In a powerful and inventive response to the Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) shocking ignorance, Punekars organized a unique poetry program to celebrate the life and work of legendary Dalit poet Namdeo Dhasal. The controversy erupted after CBFC officials, while reviewing the Marathi film 'Chal Halla Bol'—which is based on the Dalit Panther movement and features Dhasal’s poems—allegedly asked, “Who is Namdeo Dhasal? We don't know him.” The board had also objected to the poet’s strong and revolutionary language, demanding the removal of his poems from the film.
Instead of resorting to traditional confrontation, a group of citizens in Pune organized a peaceful and artistic protest titled 'Namdeo Tujha Baap' (Namdeo, Your Father) at the city’s prominent Goodluck Chowk. The event successfully transformed the public square into a vibrant celebration of the late poet’s immense contribution to Marathi and global literature. Locals gathered to passionately recite Dhasal’s articles and poems, using art and literature to honor his legacy and voice their strong displeasure over the board's apparent lack of cultural and historical awareness regarding such an influential figure and Padma Shri awardee.
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