Gangster Series Title Changed After Court Intervention

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has prompted a title change for an upcoming series, reportedly based on jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Zee Entertainment, the production company, informed the court that the creative team would finalize a new title, ensuring it would not include 'Lawrence Bishnoi'.

The High Court observed that while the film's content, largely based on public information, was unobjectionable, the title itself was problematic. The court indicated no objection to the release if the gangster's name was removed from the title.

However, the Punjab Advocate General argued against the film entirely, requesting the removal of 'Punjab' and all Bishnoi references from the series. Bishnoi's counsel also sought the removal of his name and images. The Centre voiced concerns that the project might disturb law and order in Punjab, contributing to the ban on its release.

The court also drew a distinction between glorifying an individual and criticizing them, referencing a previous case involving Bishnoi's interviews. The controversy initially arose due to objections that the title 'Lawrence of Punjab' glorified gangster culture and associated Punjab with organized crime.