Padmavati Row: The film's producers have voluntarily deferred the release of the movie
In light of increasing protests, Viacom18, the producers of Padmavati, which was slated to be released on December 1, have
deferred the film's release. The decision to delay the release of the film comes after protests erupted across the country over the film's controversial content. Rajput groups, including the Karni Sena, allege that the film distorted history and invented a romantic angle between two historical figures, Chittor's Queen Padmini and Delhi sultan Alauddin Khilji. Hundreds of protestors also blocked Rajasthan's Chittorgarh fort. Apart from the protests, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) also withheld the film's clearance, citing incomplete paperwork.
Here are the highlights of the deferral of Padmavati's release:
A number of women members of a Rajput organisation today protested in Rajasthan's Kota with swords in their hands, demanding a ban on period drama.
Bollywood playback singer Aditya Narain said that he was hurt by the protests against
Padmavati, which he termed as "unfortunate".
"I don't think it happens anywhere in the world. With due respect to everybody who is standing by the culture and history of their state, I would say watch the film first," he told news agency Press Trust of India in an interview.
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta said that it was sad that "bullies" had prevailed again, saying that the government's inaction was "disappointing but not unexpected".
Twinkle Khanna, who is known for her wit, wrote "The nation wants to know-Is this 10 cr beheading fee inclusive of GST?"
Sonam Kapoor took to Twitter to write "I'm appalled at the drama that's unfolding.. it's ludicrous and I'm so ashamed of some of these Indians.."
Bollywood Actress Sonam Kapoor wrote out against the BJP officer's doubling of the bounty, while Twinkle Khanna also took a jibe.
Viacom18, the producers of Padmavati, have said they will announce the revised released date of the film "in due course", after obtaining the requisite clearances.
"I want to congratulate the young man from Meerut for announcing Rs. 5 crore bounty for beheading Deepika, Bhansali. We will reward the ones beheading them with Rs. 10 crore, and also take care of their family's needs," Suraj Pal Amu said.
The movie ran into trouble with Rajput groups since the shooting started, and protests over it have been spiraling since.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje yesterday wrote to Information Minister Smriti Irani, saying the release of Padmavati should be put on hold to allow time for discussion. The film, she said, should not be released without changes so it won't hurt the sentiments of any community.
The BJP official Suraj Pal Amu said he
wanted to congratulate the youth of Meerut for announcing the bounty for beheading the Padmavati actress and director, according to news agency ANI. Apart from doubling the bounty, he also allegedly said that he will take care of the family needs of those who will behead Deepika Padukone and Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Haryana BJP official backs call to behead Deepika Padukone, Sanjay Leela Bhansali over Padmavati, announces 10 crore reward.