Union Minister Ramdas Athawale Bats For Phule, Demands Tax Exemption
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Union Minister Ramdas Athawale praised the film Phule at a Mumbai screening, urging tax-free status and recommending it for lawmakers and President Droupadi Murmu.
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has voiced strong support for the biographical film Phule at a special screening held in Mumbai on May 1, 2025. Directed by Ananth Mahadevan, the film chronicles the transformative lives of social reformers Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, pioneers in the fight against caste and gender discrimination in India.
Commending the film's cultural and social impact, Athawale called it an essential watch, particularly for lawmakers, adding that its message of equality and justice deserves a nationwide audience.
Ramdas Athawale urged that Phule be granted tax-free status across the country, emphasizing its educational and societal value. He further recommended that the film be screened for all Members of Parliament and even suggested a special viewing for President Droupadi Murmu.
'This movie is a good attempt to highlight the contributions of Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule. It should be watched by everyone, especially our lawmakers, to understand the social issues it addresses. I recommend this film even to the President of India," said Athawale in a press note.
Athawale underscored the historical importance of the social reforms led by Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and his wife, Savitribai Phule, emphasizing how their fight against caste and gender discrimination continues to resonate in modern-day India.
The film Phule, starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, was released on April 25, 2025, following a wave of controversy and objections from certain groups regarding its depiction of caste-based discrimination.
Director Ananth Mahadevan, who was also present at the screening, expressed his gratitude for Union Minister Ramdas Athawale's support. He thanked Athawale for recognising the importance of the film and its message.
'The film is a true to history and we have made it with all our heart. I am glad AthawaleJi has endorsed the film today. Today, I am as happy as I am grateful to him for his wholehearted support for the film," Mahadevan said.
The film's core narrative is deeply rooted in the struggles faced by Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, who dedicated their lives to battling caste discrimination, illiteracy, and gender biases in 19th-century India.
'Phule" is produced by Dancing Shiva Films and Kingsmen Productions, with Zee Studios taking charge of its distribution. The film also boasts a stellar supporting cast, including Vinay Pathak, Suresh Vishwakarma, and Darsheel Safary.
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