Political Leaders React as Low-Budget 'Hanuman Ansh' Becomes Hit

Mumbai, September 9 – The surprise hit "Hanuman Ansh," a slim‑budget film about the saint Neem Karoli Baba, has ignited commentary from both political and religious quarters.

BJP MP and veteran actress Hema Malini celebrated the film’s success, attributing it to the blessings of Lord Hanuman and praising the filmmaker, whom she described as an ordinary, unassuming girl who crafted a story that resonated strongly with the public.

The movie, inspired by Baba’s spiritual philosophy, follows an elderly character named Bosle who recounts Baba’s protective presence during the pre‑independence era, then shifts focus to the childhood of Lakshmi Narayan—later known as Neem Karoli Baba—who embarks on a solitary quest after his mother’s death.

The low‑cost production stunned box‑office analysts, prompting a meeting with Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, who was shown selected scenes highlighting Baba’s connection to the Nath lineage. In Uttarakhand, chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, after a personal screening, announced a tax‑free status for the movie, emphasizing its value in promoting spiritual messages.

The film also faced political scrutiny. Congress leader Rashid Alvi accused it of exploiting religious sentiment for political gain, while BJP representative Ram Kadam cautioned against premature criticism, urging that the content be examined before labeling it controversial.

Directed by Vishal Chaturvedi and produced by 21‑year‑old Anupreya Nagar, "Hanuman Ansh" (meaning ‘Fragment of Hanuman’) weaves themes of selfless charity, universal love, and inner pilgrimage into a narrative that travels through temples, forests, rivers, and villages.

The public’s enthusiasm, coupled with endorsements from high‑profile politicians, suggests that devotional cinema continues to find a powerful foothold in contemporary Indian film markets.