'Maharaj' has been a long and wild journey for me, says Junaid Khan
Junaid Khan, whose debut film "Maharaj" premiered on Netflix after the Gujarat High Court lifted an interim stay on the film's release The period drama, backed by Yash Raj Films (YRF), is based on an 1862 libel case involving a Vaishnavite religious leader and social reformer Karsandas Mulji.
«I cannot explain in words what I'm feeling right now. 'Maharaj' has been a long and wild journey for me, but all's well that ends well I guess,» the debutant actor said in a statement issued on Saturday.
The Gujarat High Court on Friday observed that «Maharaj» did not target the Vaishnav Pushtimarg sect as alleged by its members, who had filed a petition against the release of the film, claiming that it hurts religious sentiments. The film has nothing objectionable or derogatory, the court said after watching it, and allowed its release on streaming platform Netflix.
«Maharaj» is a film that was made with a «lot of love and respect and passion», Junaid said.
«I'm glad that the film and my performance is striking a chord with the audience at large. I know I have miles to go and lots to improve upon. I just hope I get a cast and crew as supportive in all my future work,» he added.
«Maharaj» is produced by Aditya Chopra under YRF Entertainment and is directed by Siddharth P Malhotra of «Hichki» fame.
The film also stars Jaideep Ahlawat and Shalini Pandey in pivotal roles, with Sharvari in a special appearance.
In a statement posted on its official social media handles on Friday, YRF said the movie is a tribute to Karsandas
