Madras High Court Case Filed Against Song in Santhanam’s Devil’s Double Next Level
Actor Santhanam’s upcoming horror-comedy, Devil’s Double Next Level, set for release on May 16, 2025, has stirred controversy over one of its songs, prompting a legal case filed in the Madras High Court. The song in question, titled “Kissa 47”, allegedly misuses a sacred devotional chant, sparking outrage among religious groups and public figures.
What Is the Issue?
The controversy centers around the remixing of the sacred chant “Srinivasa Govinda”—a devotional hymn associated with Lord Venkateswara of Tirupati—within a rap song featured in the film’s soundtrack. Critics argue the song's presentation is irreverent and disrespectful.
Bhanuprakash Reddy, a member of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) board and a political figure, issued a legal notice to actor Santhanam and the filmmakers, demanding:
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₹100 crore in damages
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A formal public apology
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Immediate removal or modification of the song
Legal Action in Madras High Court
The case has been officially filed in the Madras High Court, urging the judiciary to ban or censor the song, citing the hurt caused to religious sentiments and breach of cultural ethics.
The petitioner has emphasized the failure of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to screen the song for religious sensitivity, raising broader concerns about regulatory oversight in Indian cinema.
About the Film
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Title: Devil’s Double Next Level
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Lead Actor: Santhanam
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Director: S. Prem Anand
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Genre: Horror-Comedy
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Music: OfRo
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Producers: The Show People, Niharika Entertainment
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Franchise: Fourth installment in the Dhilluku Dhuddu series
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Release Date: May 16, 2025
Title: Devil’s Double Next Level
Lead Actor: Santhanam
Director: S. Prem Anand
Genre: Horror-Comedy
Music: OfRo
Producers: The Show People, Niharika Entertainment
Franchise: Fourth installment in the Dhilluku Dhuddu series
Release Date: May 16, 2025
Impact on Film Release & Industry Response
While the film’s team is yet to release an official statement, the legal battle may affect its release and public reception. If the court finds merit in the complaint, the song might be altered or removed.
Religious and cultural organizations have started urging the film industry to respect devotional material, potentially influencing future content production and certification guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why has a case been filed against Devil’s Double Next Level?
The film includes a rap song “Kissa 47” that features the devotional hymn “Srinivasa Govinda,” which many claim has been misused and disrespected.
Q2. Who filed the complaint?
Bhanuprakash Reddy, a member of the TTD board and politician, filed a legal notice and case in the Madras High Court seeking compensation and a public apology.
Q3. What are the demands in the legal notice?
The notice demands ₹100 crore in damages, an official apology, and either removal or revision of the controversial song from the movie.
Q4. Has the film's release been delayed?
As of now, the movie is scheduled for release on May 16, 2025. Any change depends on the outcome of the court’s decision.
Q5. What’s the public and industry reaction?
The controversy has sparked debate about religious respect in cinema. Public reactions are mixed—some support artistic freedom while others demand accountability for cultural insensitivity.
Conclusion
The case against Devil’s Double Next Level puts the spotlight on the balance between creative freedom and cultural sensitivity. As the court deliberates, all eyes are on how this controversy will impact the film’s release and future portrayals of devotional content in Indian cinema.
Published on : May 15, 2025
Posted by : PAVAN