Ajay Devgn’s ‘Chauhaan’ faces backlash over alleged misuse of Chauhan clan name

Ajay Devgn’s ‘Chauhaan’ in TROUBLE; Kshatriya Parishad condemns ‘appropriation of Chauhan clan: 'We reject every attempt'

Ajay Devgn's upcoming film 'Chauhaan' has found itself at the centre of yet another controversy. Soon after the teaser drew criticism over its depiction of the Kashmir conflict, the film is now facing objections from the Kshatriya Parishad.

The organisation has accused the makers of misusing Rajput identity and history, alleging that the Chauhan clan's legacy is being drawn into present-day political narratives.

Kshatriya Parishad objects to use of Chauhan identity

In a strongly worded statement shared on social media, the Kshatriya Parishad condemned what it described as the "weaponisation of Rajput history and appropriation of Rajput identities." The organisation asserted that the Chauhan lineage is an important part of India's historical legacy and should not be employed for "electoral or ideological purposes."It further stated, "Chauhans are a historic Rajput (Kshatriya) lineage whose legacy belongs to history, not to partisan campaigns or manufactured media controversies."

The organisation also expressed concern over repeated attempts to attach Rajput identity to divisive political debates. Calling the development "deeply unfortunate," it said, "At a time when Rajput voices remain underrepresented in mainstream media and public discourse, invoking a Rajput clan name merely to provoke outrage, inflame caste and communal sentiments, or generate political spectacle is both irresponsible and disrespectful.

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Organisation cites historical examples

Questioning what it called a simplistic interpretation of medieval Indian history, the Parishad argued that political alliances of the era cannot be viewed solely through a communal lens.It cited several historical examples to support its argument, stating, "Mahmud Lodi fought under the leadership of Maharana Sanga at the Battle of Khanwa; Hakim Khan Sur commanded a contingent in the army of Maharana Pratap at Haldighati; Farid Khan, who later became Sher Shah Suri, is traditionally associated with military service under Raja Raisal Shekhawat in his early career; and Maharaja Vikramaditya Tomar laid down his life fighting alongside the Lodi forces in the First Battle of Panipat.

"The statement added, "These episodes illustrate that medieval political alliances were shaped by statecraft, loyalty, and military strategy — not by the communal narratives being imposed upon them today."Reiterating its stand, the organisation concluded, "Kshatriya Parishad rejects every attempt to weaponise Rajput history or appropriate Rajput identities for electoral or ideological purposes. Historical memory must not become a tool for communal mobilisation.

We call upon political actors, filmmakers, and media organisations to engage with India's past responsibly, respecting historical complexity rather than exploiting Rajput heritage as bait for divisive political debate.

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Teaser had already sparked criticism

This is not the first controversy surrounding 'Chauhaan'. The teaser had earlier triggered criticism over certain dialogues and its portrayal of the Kashmir conflict, with several social media users questioning its messaging.One of the most debated moments was a dialogue suggesting that pellet guns cause only "minimal damage." The remark drew strong reactions, including from actor Swara Bhasker, who criticised the film's treatment of the issue.Sharing a news report about the impact of pellet guns, Swara wrote, "Is this what you want to glorify Bollywood?! Pellet guns are not 'limited damage,' they are a gross human rights violation. And mainstream Kashmiris are not Pathaans.

Kuch toh research kar liya karo yaar. And look up Goebbels while you are at it!" She accompanied the post with the caption, "The Vivek Agnihotri-fication of Bollywood."Ajay Devgn's voiceover in the teaser, "Tell the Pathans, Chauhaan is coming," also became a flashpoint online. Several viewers alleged that the dialogue painted Muslims in a negative light while using the Rajput identity to frame a larger political narrative.

Release date

Directed by Neeraj Yadav, 'Chauhaan' is backed by Jyoti Deshpande, Aanand L Rai and Himanshu Sharma under the banners of Jio Studios and Colour Yellow Productions. The action drama is scheduled to arrive in theatres on October 1, 2027.

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