Key Points
- Civil suit filed in Pune alleges derogatory portrayal of the judiciary and advocates in the teaser.
- Court issues notice to actors Akshay Kumar, Arshad Warsi, and the film’s director; appearance sought on August 28, 2025.
- Objections include use of the term “Mamu” for a judge and depiction of frequent brawls among lawyers.
- Similar complaint was filed earlier by Ajmer District Bar Association (May 2024), seeking to halt “inappropriate” portrayals.
- Despite the controversy, the teaser has driven strong audience interest; film previously eyed a September 19 release.
Mumbai: The teaser of Jolly LLB 3, featuring Arshad Warsi and Akshay Kumar, has triggered a legal controversy soon after release. A petition filed in the Pune Civil Court alleges that the teaser undermines judicial dignity and portrays the legal profession in a derogatory light. The court has issued notices to the lead actors and the director, directing them to appear on August 28, 2025, for the first hearing.
The Core Allegations
- Derogatory depiction of court proceedings: The petitioner, advocate Wajid Khan, claims the teaser presents the court setup and conduct in a manner that diminishes public respect.
- Use of “Mamu” for a judge: The phrase has been singled out as an affront to judicial decorum and the dignity of the bench.
- Negative portrayal of advocates: Frequent fights among lawyers shown in the teaser are alleged to paint the entire legal fraternity in a poor light.
- Intent to “tarnish reputation”: The petition contends that repeated comedic or dismissive elements could influence public perception of lawyers and judges.
Legal Context and Precedent
- Earlier complaint in Ajmer (May 2024): The Ajmer District Bar Association filed a complaint seeking to stop the “inappropriate and ridiculous” portrayal of the judiciary, including a demand to halt the film’s shoot at the time. That matter did not progress further, but it set the context for renewed objections now.
- Current proceeding in Pune: With notices issued, the matter will be tested in court issues likely to arise include free speech and artistic expression versus reasonable restrictions to protect institutional dignity, and whether interim relief (stay or content modification) is warranted based on the teaser alone.
What the Court Could Do Next (Possible Scenarios)
- Seek responses/affidavits from the makers and actors, then decide on interim relief (e.g., advisory, disclaimer, edits, or temporary restraint on promotions).
- Encourage self-regulatory measures: disclaimers clarifying that characters and events are fictional and not intended to demean the judiciary.
- List the matter for detailed hearing post-August 28, possibly aligning with any release calendar changes.
Audience Buzz and Film Status
- Dual Jolly face-off: This installment brings both “Jollys” together Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi supported by Saurabh Shukla’s much-loved judge character, heightening audience anticipation.
- Teaser reception: Despite the legal row, the teaser has garnered significant interest and positive buzz for its courtroom comedy-drama setup and star power.
- Release timeline: The film had been slated for a September 19 theatrical release; any court directives or voluntary edits could affect promotional plans and timelines.
For Industry Watchers and Creators
- Content risk management: Courtroom dramas and satire should balance creative freedoms with sensitivity toward institutions; pre-release legal vetting and advisory disclaimers can mitigate disputes.
- Trailer/teaser scrutiny: Early promotional materials increasingly attract legal attention makers often prepare alternate cuts to swiftly comply with court directions if needed.
Advertisement
