Prabhas’ 'Fauzi' Lands in Controversy Over Netaji’s Portrayal

Prabhas’ upcoming period action drama 'Fauzi' has landed in controversy after Chandra Kumar Bose, grandnephew of freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, objected to the film’s portrayal of the historical leader and demanded an apology from director Hanu Raghavapudi.

The controversy erupted after the makers released the film’s teaser on October 23, coinciding with Prabhas’ 47th birthday. The teaser opens with a fictionalised conversation between Netaji and German dictator Adolf Hitler in Berlin during World War II, before introducing Prabhas’ character, a fictional Indian spy fighting against British rule.

In the scene, Netaji describes the spy’s operations against the British and explains how he developed a code inspired by the Bhagavad Gita, reportedly more difficult to crack than Germany’s Enigma. However, the portrayal has drawn criticism for allegedly using the historical leader to elevate the film’s fictional protagonist.

Chandra Kumar Bose said filmmakers had the creative freedom to depict India’s freedom struggle but should not compromise on historical accuracy. He argued that the scene diminishes Netaji’s stature by presenting him as subordinate to a fictional character and oversimplifying his meeting with Hitler.

Bose emphasised that Netaji approached Hitler and Japanese leader Hideki Tojo to seek support for India’s independence while maintaining his own political position. He also highlighted Netaji’s opposition to fascism and his commitment to democracy and people’s democratic rights.

Accusing the director of sensationalising the historical encounter for dramatic effect, Bose urged Hanu Raghavapudi to apologise to the people of India and those who respect the freedom struggle.

The teaser has also triggered mixed reactions on social media. While some viewers criticised the portrayal of historical figures, others defended the film as a fictionalised period drama.

Written and directed by Hanu Raghavapudi, 'Fauzi' is backed by Mythri Movie Makers and presented by T-Series Films. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on March 19, 2027.