A GREAT documentary film will narrate an astonishing story in such detail that it makes you think it can’t possibly be true even though you know it is. This film, now streaming on Netflix, belongs to that category.
This true crime story is set in a sleepy village in Kerala, India, that becomes the centre of attention when a housewife named Jolly Joseph is accused of six murders. With witness testimony, including from close family and police, the documentary tells the story of a duplicitous woman, who married into a household under false pretences and allegedly murdered her mother-in-law in order to keep her deceitful past covered up.
Between 2002 and 2016, her father-in-law, uncle and husband all died under mysterious circumstances, along with the wife and baby of a man Joseph wanted to marry.
The documentary also shines a spotlight on an alleged lover, who may have provided her with the cyanide she used to poison the various victims in order to cover her tracks, inherit a property and marry a man she desired.
With archive photos, first-hand testimonials, including from her son, the mass media coverage that transpired and expert analysis, the gripping documentary lays bare the machinations of a shocking serial killer who showed little remorse.
What makes the story even more fascinating is that the heinous crimes were allegedly committed by a female in a country where most murderers are men. Great editing and direction ensure the film moves along at a swift pace, keeping you engaged till the end.
It also shines a light on the dark side of Kerala, a state that is globally associated with wellness, nature and peace. Dubbed in English, the documentary is a must-watch for true crime fans .
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.