Following protests and condemnations, the controversial web series GODMAN, which was all set for release in ZEE5 has been suspended.
In a latest statement, OTT Platform ZEE5 has said that the release of the series has currently been suspended indefinitely. The statement read ‘ZEE5 is a responsible content creator. The platform has been following stringent guidelines when it comes to self-regulating content and has proactively instilled a robust set of features in this regard.’
‘Purely in the interest of its viewers, ZEE5 was also one of the first industry players to have signed the Code for Self-Regulation of Online Curated Content Providers. Basis feedback received with reference to our Tamil fiction show GODMAN, we have decided to suspend the release of this show at this moment. The producers, show, ZEE5 had no intent whatsoever of offending or hurting any community, religious or personal beliefs or sentiments.’
The web series is directed by Babu Yogeshwaran, who earlier helmed Jayam Ravi’s Daas and is currently directing Vijay Antony’s Tamizharasan. It is produced by Ilango Raghupathy.
The trailer features Jayaprakash as Hindu saint speaking ill of Brahmins and there were plenty of voyeuristic scenes. No sooner the trailer was out, several people registered their opposition to it in social media. Former Union Minister Dr Subraminam Swamy spoke to Subash Chandra of ZEE in this regard. The latter assured him that the it will not be released. Cases were filed against the producer and director across Tamilnadu. The Central Crime Branch police have summoned them for investigation.