The Taj Story Movie Paresh Rawal Poster Sparks Backlash — Makers Issue Clarification

The new poster for Paresh Rawal’s upcoming film The Taj Story has triggered strong reactions online. The movie, written and directed by Tushar Amrish Goel, is set to release on October 31, 2025. However, its promotional campaign is already facing controversy, with many accusing the makers of hurting religious sentiments.

The backlash began after the film’s motion poster went live on social media. In the visual, Paresh Rawal is shown lifting the iconic white dome of the Taj Mahal to reveal a Lord Shiva idol beneath it. The creative instantly went viral, drawing criticism from users who called it “distorting history” and “provoking unnecessary religious tension.”

What Sparked the Taj Story Poster Controversy

When the motion poster dropped, social media users reacted sharply. Several posts claimed the imagery tried to push unverified theories about the Taj Mahal’s origins. Some even accused the makers of fueling division. One comment read, “Didn’t expect this from Paresh Rawal,” while another said, “These people want to spread unrest in the country.”

Paresh Rawal himself initially promoted the poster with the caption: “What if everything you’ve been taught is a lie? The truth isn’t just hidden; it’s being judged. Unveil the facts with #TheTajStory on 31st October in cinemas near you.” The post was later deleted after the backlash grew louder.

Following the uproar, the production company Swarnim Global Services Pvt. Ltd. issued a public clarification. They stated that The Taj Story “does not deal with religious matters” and “does not claim that a Shiv temple resides within the Taj Mahal.” The statement urged viewers to watch the movie before forming opinions, emphasizing that the story focuses on historical facts and courtroom debates.

Reactions and Ongoing Debate

Despite the makers’ clarification, the controversy has not fully calmed. Many online users called the move a “publicity stunt” aimed at drawing attention ahead of the release. Others defended the film’s right to artistic expression, saying viewers should wait to see the full story before judging.

The Taj Mahal has long been at the center of debates. Some fringe groups have claimed it was built over a Hindu temple called “Tejo Mahalaya,” but mainstream historians and the Archaeological Survey of India have dismissed such claims as baseless. This poster has reignited the old discussion and put the film under scrutiny even before its release.

The teaser, released earlier in August, hinted that the movie will feature intense courtroom drama. Paresh Rawal plays a character deeply involved in arguments over historical identity and heritage. The tone suggests the film will tackle sensitive topics but from a legal and historical lens rather than religious propaganda.

With the release set for October 31, all eyes will be on whether the film lives up to its promise of presenting historical debates responsibly or faces further backlash for its controversial marketing.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is The Taj Story poster controversial?

It shows Paresh Rawal lifting the Taj Mahal dome to reveal a Lord Shiva idol, which many see as historically inaccurate and offensive.

Q2: Did the makers of The Taj Story apologize?

They did not apologize but issued a clarification saying the film does not claim the Taj Mahal was a temple.

Q3: When will The Taj Story release?

The movie is scheduled to hit theatres on October 31, 2025.

Q4: What is the theme of The Taj Story?

The film is a courtroom drama exploring historical identity and heritage debates.

Q5: Who stars in The Taj Story?

Paresh Rawal leads the cast alongside Zakir Hussain, Amruta Khanvilkar, Sneha Wagh, and Namit Das.