‘Phule’ Releases Amid Controversy: What Does Pratik Gandhi Think About Portraying Jyotirao Phule?

New Delhi— Phule, a film based on the lives of social reformers Jyotirao Govindrao Phule and his wife Savitribai Phule, has been released in theatres today, Friday, amidst a wave of controversy. Actress Patralekhaa plays the role of Savitribai Phule, and urged fans to watch the film via a social media post, assuring them they wouldn’t be disappointed.

Sharing a poster of the film on Instagram, Patralekhaa wrote:

She also expressed gratitude to director Ananth Mahadevan, writing:

She praised co-star Pratik Gandhi, who plays the role of Jyotirao Phule:

She went on to thank the rest of the team behind the film.

Phule is a biographical film that showcases the life and struggles of Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, pioneers in the fight against caste discrimination and champions of women’s education in India.

While Pratik Gandhi essays the role of Jyotirao Phule, Patralekhaa portrays Savitribai Phule.

Controversy Around the Film

The release of Phule was marred by controversy. Several groups from the Brahmin community raised objections, accusing the film of being offensive. Amid public uproar, the censor board enforced cuts in the film. Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap’s statements regarding Brahmins further fueled the debate.

Breathing Life Into a Forgotten Revolutionary – Pratik Gandhi

In an era marked by politicized memory and contested history, Phule pushes us to reflect not just on what we remember—but how we remember. At the heart of this biopic is actor Pratik Gandhi, who rose to fame with his portrayal of Harshad Mehta in Scam 1992. This time, he steps into the shoes of a historical figure with few surviving images but a powerful moral legacy.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Pratik Gandhi opened up about his transformation into Jyotirao Phule—physically and emotionally—without deifying him, and the risks of engaging in politically charged cinema.

“How Do You Build a Character With No Visuals?”

There is little visual documentation of Jyotirao Phule—no video footage and only a few images. So how did Pratik step into his persona?

“As you said, there’s hardly any footage. There’s one well-known image—where he wears a red turban, the one we see in books and newspapers. That image has a slight crease between the eyebrows, suggesting a determined personality. Coincidentally, I have the same crease on my forehead—that’s where I began,” says Pratik.

He studied Phule’s physicality and habits:

“Not a Saint, but a Human”

Historical icons are often idolized, but an actor must humanize them.

“If I approach the character with sympathy, I won’t do justice to the story. I need understanding, not sympathy. We often view such figures as god-like, but they were humans who made courageous decisions during difficult times,” says Pratik.

While their public deeds are well documented, he believes the real creative scope lies in exploring what went on in their hearts and minds.

The Untold Bond Between Jyotirao and Savitribai

One of the film’s most unique but understated aspects is the marital bond between Jyotirao and Savitribai.

“We know very little about their personal relationship. But the script helped us explore a new chemistry—one based on mutual respect, not physicality,” Pratik shares. “They were married as teenagers. For a husband at that time to encourage his wife’s education—it shows incredible maturity. Both were committed to progress—personal and societal.”

Telling History in Today’s Times: A Risky Endeavor

With increasing scrutiny on art and expression, films like Phule come with significant risks.

“It’s very sad and scary. We used to be a much more tolerant country. Today, any color, any word, can hurt someone. It’s madness,” says Pratik.

He recalls a similar controversy over the trailer of Bhavai (2021):

But Pratik decided that fear can’t dictate choices:

Is It Necessary to Speak the Truth Despite Fear?

The film was initially set to release on April 11—Phule’s birth anniversary—but was delayed by a week.

“We all wanted the release on his birthday. That would’ve been historic. Still, this is a story from our history books. There’s no agenda here,” says Pratik.

He chooses roles carefully, ensuring the story is balanced.

A Legacy of Courage and Selflessness

For Pratik Gandhi, Phule is more than just a film role—it’s a lesson.

For Pratik, the essence of Phule’s legacy lies in speaking and showing the truth—even when it's uncomfortable.