The upcoming film Param Sundari, starring Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor, has sparked controversy over a romantic scene set in a church featured in its trailer. A Christian organization, Watchdog Foundation, has raised objections, accusing the filmmakers of disrespecting religious sentiments.

What’s the Issue?

The trailer opens with a flirtatious interaction between Sidharth’s character Param and Janhvi’s Sundari, set inside a church. The Watchdog Foundation has expressed strong criticism of the scene, claiming it violates the sanctity of a Christian place of worship. In response, they have sent formal complaints to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Mumbai Police, the Information & Broadcasting Ministry, and the Maharashtra government.

Advocate Godfrey Pimenta, speaking on behalf of the group, stated that the CBFC should ensure films respect religious sentiments, as mandated by the Cinematograph Act, 1952. He further called the scene “indecent” and offensive to the Catholic community.

Demands and Threats

The group has demanded that the church scene be removed from all promotional materials and the final film. They have also threatened to hold public protests and filed a request for an FIR against the lead actors, director Tushar Jalota, and the film’s producers.

About the Film

Param Sundari is a cross-cultural romantic drama that marks the first on-screen collaboration between Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor. Sidharth plays a Punjabi man who falls in love with Janhvi’s character, a South Indian woman. The film is directed by Tushar Jalota and includes Rajeev Khandelwal, Aakash Dahiya, and Manjot Singh in supporting roles.

Param Sundari is set for a theatrical release on August 29, 2025.