Following a chain of legal and censorship-related setbacks, the contentious film Udaipur Files, originally titled Gyanvapi Files: A Tailor's Murder Story, is now officially slated for release in theaters across the globe on August 8, 2025.
This comes after a recent Supreme Court order to the Delhi High Court to consider petitions against the government's clearance of the film.
Originally set for release on July 11, 2025, the film faced several hurdles that brought it to a halt. Vijay Raaz plays the role of murdered tailor Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur Files, which is being produced by Amit Jani. The film has generated huge interest among viewers and critics alike because of its sensitive topic.
Director Bharat Shrinate confirmed the new release date after the ruling of the apex court, which effectively paved the way for the film's international release.
The controversy surrounding the law began when the Centre's ruling on clearing the film's release was challenged, which resulted in the initial delay. With the Supreme Court's directive now in effect, the much-awaited release has now been cleared.
Responding to the update, Bharat Shrinate informed NDTV, "We respect the Supreme Court order and are willing to release the film on August 8. Jani Firefox Films will begin promotions and release Udaipur Files globally on August 8. Truth always triumphs."
BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya also appreciated the ruling. In an X (formerly Twitter) post, he said, "Supreme Court declines to stay Udaipur Files. A historic win. Cinema won't be muzzled – it will speak! (sic)."
Notwithstanding several production hiccups, the producers were keen on releasing the story on the big screen.
The movie is inspired by the actual murder of Kanhaiya Lal, a tailor from Udaipur who was murdered in June 2022. The accused perpetrators, Mohammad Riyaz and Mohammad Ghous, subsequently released a video claiming the murder was in revenge for "support" on a social media post where Lal had apparently voiced "backing" for former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma, whose contentious comments on Prophet Mohammed had prompted a backlash across the Muslim world.
The case was handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which arrested the accused under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and provisions of the Indian Penal Code. The case still continues in trial in the NIA's special court in Jaipur.
With the release of Udaipur Files now officially sealed, the film is likely to spark public discourse on issues of free speech, communal tension, and justice again.
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