Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap's film "Udta Punjab" has reportedly not been cleared by the Censor Board
Highlights
- Film stopped due to political reasons as polls are due next year: Sources
- Producer Anurag Kashyap has option to appeal but worried about cuts
- Film based on issue of drug abuse in Punjab was set to release on June 17
The much-talked about film "Udta Punjab" by filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has been stopped by the censor board.
The film, based on the subject of Punjab's drug menace, was reportedly not granted an all-clear because of "excessive swearing".
The decision, NDTV has learned from a censor board member, was taken earlier this week.
Mr Kashyap, who is familiar with censorship troubles, has the option of appealing to a tribunal but NDTV has learnt that he is concerned that he will be asked to accept cuts.
He has also asked the Information and Broadcasting ministry to intervene but sources said: "We don't get involved in these issues directly. Previously too the tribunal has intervened on appeals."
Sources close to the filmmaker link the decision to political reasons in the state that will hold elections next year.
When the drug problem featured in Aam Aadmi Party leader Kumar Vishwas' music video recently, it went viral; it was a political attack as much as a creative effort.
The film, starring Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Kareena Kapoor, is to release on June 17.
Shahid Kapoor plays a foul-mouthed rock star who is an addict.
The trailer was cleared for release in April.
In earlier interviews, Mr Kashyap has spoken about how censorship has marred his creative process.
On being questioned by NDTV, Minister of State Rajya Vardhan Rathore refused to comment.