**Is Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Bandar’ ‘Anti-MeToo’?**
*By Shreya Mukherjee | Oct 07, 2025, 04:26 PM*
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap’s latest release, *Nishaanchi*, is currently playing in theaters. At the same time, he is making global headlines with his upcoming film *Bandar*, which recently premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The premiere was attended by the film’s lead cast and crew, including actor Bobby Deol.
Early reviews have described *Bandar* as a “very provocative film,” with some critics labeling it “anti-MeToo.” This has sparked discussions and speculation about the film’s themes and message.
### Director’s Clarification: ‘It Has Nothing to Do with MeToo’
In an exclusive interview with SCREEN, Anurag Kashyap addressed the speculation surrounding *Bandar* and clarified the film’s intent. He explained,
*“It has nothing to do with MeToo. See, when a film is about a false rape accusation case, those conversations happen. But MeToo is about power — somebody using a position of power to do something. This film has nothing to do with that kind of powerplay or that kind of sexual angle, so it has nothing to do with MeToo.”*
### The Screenplay and Collaboration
Kashyap also revealed that he did not write the script for *Bandar*. The screenplay was penned by Sudip Sharma, known for his work on *Udta Punjab*, *Sonchiriya*, *Paatal Lok*, and *Kohrra*.
Kashyap shared, *“I didn’t have the time to write the script, and I was of the opinion it’s a very complex subject. But only if Sudip Sharma agreed to write it, would I direct it. Fortunately, he agreed, and that’s how it happened.”*
### What’s Next for Anurag Kashyap?
While there hasn’t been an official announcement regarding the release of *Bandar* in India, Kashyap is already preparing for the launch of *Nishaanchi Part 2*. His current theatrical release stars Aaishvary Thackeray, Vedika Pinto, Monika Panwar, Kumud Mishra, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub in lead roles.
Stay tuned for more updates on Anurag Kashyap’s projects and film releases.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-clarifies-bandar-s-connection-to-metoo/story