Ajay Devgn’s upcoming film Chauhaan finds itself at the center of yet another controversy. Soon after the trailer was criticized for its depiction of the Kashmir conflict, the film is now facing opposition from the Kshatriya diocesan community. The group accused the makers of misusing Rajput identity and history, claiming the legacy of the Chouhan clan was being incorporated into today’s political narrative.
Kshatriya Parishad opposes use of Chauhan identity
In a strongly worded statement shared on social media, the Kshatriya Diocese condemned what it called “the weaponization of Rajput history and the appropriation of Rajput identity”. The group claims that the Chauhan lineage is an important part of India’s historical heritage and should not be used for “electoral or ideological purposes”.It further stated, “The Chauhans are a historic Rajput (Kshatriya) lineage whose legacy belongs to history and not to partisan campaigns or manufactured media controversies.”The group also expressed concern over repeated attempts to link Rajput identity to divisive political debates. Calling the development “extremely unfortunate”, the statement said, “At a time when Rajput voices are under-represented in mainstream media and public discourse, invoking the name of the Rajput clan simply to stir up anger, inflame caste and communal sentiments, or create political drama is irresponsible and disrespectful.”
Organizational Citation Historical Examples
The Paris Assembly challenged simplistic interpretations of medieval Indian history, arguing that the political alliances of the era could not be seen through a public lens alone.It cites several historical examples to support its argument, stating: “Mahmud Lodi fought under the leadership of Maharana Sanga in the Battle of Khanwa; Hakim Khan Sur commanded a contingent of Maharana Pratap’s army at Haldighati; Fa Reed Khan, who later became Sher Shah Suri, traditionally served in the army of Raja Raisal Shekhawat in his early career; while Maharaja Vikramaditya Tomar fought alongside the Lodi army in the First Battle of Panipat.“The statement added, “These events demonstrate that political alliances in the Middle Ages were shaped by statecraft, loyalties and military strategy, rather than by the public narratives imposed on them today.”Reiterating its stance, the organization said, “Kshatriyas reject any attempt to weaponize Rajput history or exploit Rajput identity for electoral or ideological purposes. Historical memory must not become a tool for public mobilization. We call on political actors, filmmakers and media organizations to engage responsibly with India’s past and respect its complexity, rather than using the Rajput legacy as bait for divisive political debates.“
The trailer has already sparked criticism
This is not the first controversy surrounding ‘Chauhaan’. The trailer had earlier sparked criticism over some of the dialogue and its depiction of the Kashmir conflict, with some social media users questioning its message.One of the most controversial moments involved a conversation suggesting that pellet guns would only cause “minimal damage.” The comments sparked a backlash, including from actor Swara Bhasker, who criticized the film’s handling of the issue.Sharing a news report on the impact of pellet guns, Swara wrote, “Is this what you want to glorify Bollywood?! Bullet guns are not ‘limited harm’ but gross human rights violations. Mainstream Kashmiris are not Pathans. Ancient capital of research Kaliyakar Royal. While you’re at it, look at Goebbels! ” She captioned her post, “Vivek Agnihotization of Bollywood.”Ajay Devgn’s voiceover in the trailer, “Tell the Pathans, Chauhaan is coming” has also become a hot topic online. Some viewers claimed that the conversation cast a negative light on Muslims while using Rajput identity to construct a larger political narrative.
Release date
“Chauhaan” is directed by Neeraj Yadav and is backed by Jyoti Deshpande, Aanand L Rai and Himanshu Sharma under the banner of Jio Studios and Color Yellow Productions. The action drama is scheduled to be released on October 1, 2027.
