The year is 1862, with only three universities in India and Rabindranath Tagore just a year old, the echoes of the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 reverberate, fueling aspirations for independence. Amidst this backdrop, one man dares to defy the odds in a historic legal battle—a tale of bravery now uncovered in Maharaj, over 160 years later.
Karsandas Mulji, a journalist and social reformer, was a trailblazing advocate for women’s rights and social reform. Studying at Mumbai’s Elphinstone College and mentored by the scholar-leader Dadabhai Naoroji, he championed causes such as widow remarriage, defended the oppressed, and catalyzed societal reform.
It all came to a head in the Maharaj Libel Case of 1862, which was ignited by allegations of misconduct by a prominent figure, the case garnered widespread attention and scrutiny, setting the stage for what many consider to be one of the most significant legal battles of all time.
Fast forward to 2024, Netflix and Yash Raj Films showcase Mulji’s acts of bravery in Maharaj, which debuts on June 14. Based on the libel case, the film introduces audiences to Junaid Khan in his acting debut. Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra, Maharaj also stars Jaideep Ahlawat, Shalini Pandey, and a special appearance by Sharvari.
After 162 years, audiences will finally witness the strength of one man’s resolve to challenge the status quo in Maharaj, premiering on June 14, only on Netflix.
CREDITS:
Cast (In Alphabetical Order):
Jaideep Ahlawat
Junaid Khan
Shalini Pandey
Sharvari (Special Appearance)
Director: Siddharth P. Malhotra
Producer: Aditya Chopra
Banner: YRF Entertainment
