Bejoy Nambiar's David lands in trouble

Sindhi community objects to picturisation of folk song Dama Dam Mast Kalandar in David. Manoj Matai, the complainant says, "When the film’s promo shows violence and lovemaking sequences while the song is being played...

Director Bejoy Nambiar’s upcoming film, David, seems to have landed itself in trouble. The Sindhi community has objected to the use of the popular folk song, Dama Dam Mast Kalandar, claiming that the way it is portrayed in the movie sends out a wrong message.

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They have requested the makers, Reliance Entertainment Limited, and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to take it off the air.

The original song was first composed in honour of two of the most revered spiritual figures in the Sindhi community — Shahbaz Qalandar and Jhulelal. It was originally written by poet Aamir Khusro and then modified by Sufi poet Bulleh Shah. The email sent to the filmmakers objects to the lovemaking scenes and scenes of violence on which it is picturised.

Manoj Matai, the complainant says, “Our community is fragmented, but there are certain things we hold close to our heart. One of them is this song as it represents our culture."

"When the film’s promo shows violence and lovemaking sequences while the song is being played, it gives the wrong impression. It’s my sincere request that this is taken into consideration and they take it off air. I hope this does not work as a publicity stunt for the film.”

On being contacted, Bejoy says, “We have used this song because it is iconic and offers an instant connect with millions of people. In the film, the song is played during a wedding. There is no intention to hurt the religious sentiments of any community.”