The Vijay Raaz-starrer Udaipur Files has hit 4,500 screens across India after receiving clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The release follows months of legal hurdles and court battles.
The film is based on the 2022 murder of Udaipur tailor Kanhaiya Lal, who was killed after allegedly sharing a social media post in support of BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma, whose remarks triggered the Muhammad controversy.
Kanhaiya Lal’s Son Speaks Out
Kanhaiya Lal’s son, Yash Sahu, described the movie as a reflection of the tragic events of June 28, 2022.
“This movie, which is being released today, Udaipur Files, is based on the incident of my father…how my father was killed under terrorist conspiracy. These people were connected to Pakistan,” he said.
Calling it a portrayal of the National Investigation Agency’s charge sheet, Yash added, “There is a message in this movie that such incidents…can be brought in front of the country through a movie.”
Yash said his family is still waiting for justice. “Three years is a very long time. Even now, the criminal is still in jail…I hope that after watching this movie, people will support us in our fight for justice.”
ALSO READ: Kanhaiya Lal’s Murder Film Gets Green Signal: Court Refuses to Stall ‘Udaipur Files’
Legal Challenges Before Release
The film was originally scheduled for release on July 11, 2025. However, a day before, the Delhi High Court stayed its release following a petition. Further attempts to release the film also faced legal blocks.
Yash recounted, “It was challenged in the Supreme Court as well. The Supreme Court said, let the movie come…because the movie is CBFC certified. Then, its decision was left to the Central Government.”
According to him, the government eventually allowed the release. “Today, this movie is in front of the people of the country,” he said.
ALSO READ: Delhi HC Delivers Last-Minute Verdict on ‘Udaipur Files’—Here’s What It Means
Family Appeals for Public Support
Kanhaiya Lal’s wife, Jasoda Sahu, revealed she personally appealed to the Prime Minister when the release was stalled.
“This film is a true reflection of our family’s pain and struggle, and the entire country should see it,” she said.
One of the accused, Javed, had also moved the Supreme Court against the film’s release. The murderers had earlier released a video claiming the killing was in retaliation to Lal’s social media post.
