Archive · 27 Sep 2025
Bandit Queen Film Controversy: Arundhati Roy's Role
This article discusses author Arundhati Roy's attempts to ban the film 'Bandit Queen'.
Roy believed the film was an inaccurate depiction of Phoolan Devi's life and portrayed her in a negative way.
The author, Farrukh Dhondy, who adapted the book, disagreed with Roy's stance.
The film was initially slated to be banned, but the case was withdrawn, allowing the film to be released.
The author also reveals the fallout that came from the ordeal, including a petition and offers of bribery.
Arundhati Roy tried to have the film 'Bandit Queen' legally banned.
Dhondy, the author of the article, adapted the screenplay for 'Bandit Queen'.
Roy, along with others, brought the case to the Delhi High Court.
Phoolan Devi withdrew the case against the film.
The author was offered a bribe to suspend the film's release.
- Who
- Arundhati Roy, Farrukh Dhondy, Phoolan Devi, Bobby Bedi, Shekhar Kapur.
- What
- Dhondy recounts Arundhati Roy's efforts to ban the film Bandit Queen and the resulting controversies.
- When
- Decades ago
- Where
- UK, India and France.
- Why
- Roy opposed the film's portrayal of Phoolan Devi.
- Film Title
- Bandit Queen
- Author
- Farrukh Dhondy
- Central Figure
- Arundhati Roy
- Key Issue
- Attempt to ban film
- Court involved
- Delhi High Court
- Producer
- Bobby Bedi