Manoj Bajpayee's Ghooskhor Pandat renamed Gajab Raat, trailer and release date out

Manoj Bajpayee-starrer Ghooskhor Pandat has been renamed Gajab Raat, with the makers unveiling the trailer of the suspense thriller on October 15. Directed by Ritesh Shah, the film will premiere on Netflix on October 23.The title change comes after the film faced criticism over its original name, with concerns raised that it could hurt the sentiments of the Brahmin community. Netflix told the Delhi High Court that the producers had decided to change the title in view of the objections. The court subsequently disposed of a petition seeking a stay on the film’s release after the petitioner said his grievance had been addressed.Gajab Raat follows a police officer caught between personal gain and doing what he believes is right. Set over the course of a single night, the film explores how one decision can trigger a series of events, forcing its characters to confront difficult choices and their consequences.The film also marks the reunion of Manoj Bajpayee and filmmaker Neeraj Pandey after nearly a decade. Produced by Neeraj Pandey’s Friday Film Works, it is directed by Ritesh Shah, who makes his directorial debut with the project. Apart from Manoj, the film stars Saqib Saleem, Akshay Oberoi, Divya Dutta, Kiku Sharda and Nushrratt Bharuccha in key roles. Speaking about the film, Neeraj Pandey said he wanted to tell a story that would keep viewers guessing while making them think about the choices people make. He added that the characters’ moral dilemmas are as important to the story as the events that unfold during the night.Manoj Bajpayee said he was drawn to the film because of its complex characters and questions of accountability. He also spoke about reuniting with Neeraj Pandey and working with Ritesh Shah in his new role as a director.For Ritesh Shah, the film offered an opportunity to build suspense through a story unfolding within a limited timeframe. He said the single-night setting allowed the makers to create urgency and gradually raise the stakes.Why was the film’s title changed?The original title, Ghooskhor Pandat, drew objections over its association of the term ‘Pandat’ with corruption and bribery. A petition filed in the Delhi High Court sought to stop the film’s release, arguing that the title could harm the dignity and reputation of the Brahmin community.The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) also objected to the title, stating that it could hurt sentiments and affect social harmony. The federation had urged the makers to withdraw it.During the court proceedings, Netflix informed the Delhi High Court that the producers had taken a conscious decision to adopt a new title that better reflected the film’s narrative and intent. As the petitioner accepted the decision, the court closed the matter.With its new title, Gajab Raat is set to premiere on Netflix on October 23.- Ends