Despite being cleared by the Central Board Of Film Certification (CBFC), Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus continues to be banned in Rajasthan as the state government is still not ready to let the film hit the screens.
Rajasthan’s home minister Gulab Chand Kataria has banned the release of the film in Rajasthan citing their earlier concerns that the film depicts Queen Padmini in the wrong light.
In November, Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje had written a letter to Union information and broadcasting minister Smriti Irani, seeking “necessary changes” in the movie before its release, so that the “sentiments of any community are not hurt”.
However, after facing several roadblocks, Padmavati retitled Padmavat, is all set to release on January 25.
The film, mired in controversy over its plot line, has been cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which has asked the makers to change the title and suggested other modifications. The film was earlier scheduled to be released on December 1.
According to trade analyst Komal Nahta, Padmavat may just break all records.
“Both the films boast of solid storylines, so, they will perform well. It’s a holiday weekend, and the audience will try to catch them both. Padmavat will enjoy a historic start even if it releases on a Monday instead of a Friday since there is immense curiosity about the film anyway.”
Padmavat stars Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh in pivotal roles and will clash with Akshay Kumar’s Padman at the box-office.
