Generally, OTT content in India does not undergo active censoring, which is why many films are expected to stream in their uncut and uncensored versions on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. This has set a clear expectation among audiences, especially for gritty and raw films.
In this context, viewers anticipated Netflix to premiere the uncut and uncensored version of its much-talked-about outing Dhurandhar, which began streaming last night in multiple Indian languages. However, Netflix ended up throwing a massive curveball at Indian audiences.
Instead of releasing an extended or uncensored cut, Netflix surprisingly streamed a version that is even shorter than the theatrical print. Nearly ten minutes of footage from the theatrical version was reportedly trimmed further for the OTT release. To make matters worse, all the cuss words were muted, leaving fans extremely disappointed.
Audiences who were hoping for a raw and rustic viewing experience on Netflix were left gutted, as the OTT cut of Dhurandhar turned out to be significantly weaker than its theatrical counterpart. Social media was soon flooded with criticism, with fans calling out Netflix for its careless and baffling approach.
This isn’t the first time Netflix has faced backlash for such decisions. Earlier, the platform received heavy criticism for failing to release the uncut and uncensored version of Animal. Unfortunately, it appears that the streaming giant hasn’t learned from that experience, as Dhurandhar now joins the list of films where Netflix’s OTT version has left audiences frustrated and disappointed.
Jabardasth Comedian Defends Minister Subash, Slams Jagan
The other day, YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy courted controversy with his comments targeting TDP and Jana Sena leaders while speaking about Sankranti celebrations in Andhra Pradesh. He alleged that certain MLAs and MPs had encouraged recording dances and gambling during the festive period.
In this backdrop, Jagan specifically targeted Minister Vasamshetty Subash, accusing him of behaving irresponsibly and inappropriately by dancing on stage during recording dance programs. Jagan went on to claim that the minister had compromised his dignity through such actions.
However, Jabardasth comedian Shanti Swaroop, who was present on the stage during the same Sankranti celebration, has now come forward with a clarification video, offering a completely different version of events. Shanti Swaroop, popularly known for his lady getup performances on Jabardasth, categorically stated that Minister Subash was not at fault.
According to the comedian, a group of artists was officially invited to perform as part of the Sankranti festivities and were given work during the celebrations. He said the organisers, along with Minister Subash, were generous in supporting the artists. As a mark of respect, the artists themselves requested the minister to step onto the stage and dance briefly with them.
Shanti Swaroop clarified that the minister danced on his own only for a short while and that he later joined him on stage. He strongly refuted Jagan’s allegation that the minister danced shamelessly with women, stating that the former chief minister had completely misunderstood the situation. He added that such statements, made without knowing the facts, indirectly damage the livelihood and dignity of artists like them.
The comedian did not mince words while criticising Jagan, stating that a former chief minister should have verified basic facts before making serious allegations on a public platform.