Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s period drama Padmavati will not hit the theaters on 1 December as per schedule. The producers of the film, Viacom18 have released a statement saying that they have voluntarily deferred the film’s release date.
The period drama, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor, has been facing massive agitation from various groups, including Shri Rajput Karni Sena. They have alleged that the film falsely portrays a relationship between Rajput queen Padmini and Muslim ruler Alauddin Khilji and therefore distorts history.Though Sanjay Leela Bhansali has been vocal in his denial of these charges, the protests against the film has spread across the country, with protesters taking to the streets.
In a formal statement sent across to the members of the press, the makers said, “Viacom18 Motion Pictures, the studio behind ‘Padmavati’ has voluntarily deferred the release date of the film from 1 December 2017. Along with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, amongst the most gifted filmmakers of his generation, Viacom18 Motion Pictures has created a beautiful cinematic masterpiece in ‘Padmavati’ that captures Rajput valor, dignity, and tradition in all its glory. The film is an eloquent portrayal of a tale that will fill every Indian with pride and showcase our country’s story-telling prowess across the globe. We are a responsible, law-abiding corporate citizen and have the highest respect and regard for the law of the land and all our institutions and statutory bodies including the Central Board of Film Certification. We always have and are committed to continue following the established procedure and convention. We have faith that we will soon obtain the requisite clearances to release the film. We will announce the revised release date of the film in due course. We stand firm in our commitment to tell endearing tales that resonate with our audiences the world over as we have in the past with our other projects such as ‘Toilet: Ek Prem Katha’, ‘Queen’, ‘Bhaag Milkha Bhaag’ and many more.”
Deepika Padukone had also earlier shown her disappointment and said that as a woman and an artiste, she feels not only hurt but also angry and is amused at such reactions for the film.
The new date for the release will be announced shortly by the makers.
