<p>Known to speak his mind on raging issues, superstar Kamal Haasan took to Twitter to comment on the ongoing controversy around Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s <em>Padmavati</em>.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Haasan took to Twitter to condemn the protests and the threats that the film&#39;s director and its leading heroine, Deepika Padukone have received. Haasan tweeted, &quot; I want Ms.Deepika&#39;s head.. saved. Respect it more than her body.Even more her freedom. Do not deny her that.Many communities have apposed my films.Extremism in any debate is deplorable. Wake up cerebral India.Time to think. We&#39;ve said enough. Listen Ma Bharat(Sic).&quot;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I wantMs.Deepika&#39;s head.. saved. Respect it more than her body.Even more her freedom. Do not deny her that.Many communities have apposed my films.Extremism in any debate is deplorable. Wake up cerebral India.Time to think. We&#39;ve said enough. Listen Ma Bharat</p>
&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/932655804922019840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Haasan&#39;s tweets was in reaction to Haryana BJP chief media coordinator Suraj Pal Amu&#39; s threat to the actress. Suraj announced a bounty of Rs 10 crore on the heads of Bhansali and Deepika. The comment was made after a Meerut resident from the Kshatriya community announced a reward of Rs 5 crore for beheading these celebrities.<br />
<br />
Haasan&#39;s films&nbsp;have created a similar&nbsp;political storm in the past and the actor has always been vocal about the importance of cinema in society.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Back in 2013, his film <em>Vishwaroopam</em> was banned by the Tamil Nadu government after he was accused of showing the members of Muslim community in a bad light in the film. The allegations were made against his film even before watching it, similar to the <em>Padmavati</em> row. Haasan&#39;s <em>Hey Ram</em> also faced severe criticism as many felt it was anti-Gandhi.</p>


Kamal Haasan took to Twitter to comment on the ongoing controversy around Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmavati.?

Known to speak his mind on raging issues, superstar Kamal Haasan took to Twitter to comment on the ongoing controversy around Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmavati. Haasan took to Twitter to condemn the protests and the threats that the film's director and its leading heroine, Deepika Padukone have received. Haasan tweeted, " I want Ms.Deepika's head.. saved. Respect it more than her body.Even more her freedom. Do not deny her that.Many communities have apposed my films.Extremism in any debate is deplorable. Wake up cerebral India.Time to think. We've said enough. Listen Ma Bharat(Sic)." I wantMs.Deepika's head.. saved. Respect it more than her body.Even more her freedom. Do not deny her that.Many communities have apposed my films.Extremism in any debate is deplorable. Wake up cerebral India.Time to think. We've said enough. Listen Ma Bharat — Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) November 20, 2017 × Haasan's tweets was in reaction to Haryana BJP chief media coordinator Suraj Pal Amu' s threat to the actress. Suraj announced a bounty of Rs 10 crore on the heads of Bhansali and Deepika. The comment was made after a Meerut resident from the Kshatriya community announced a reward of Rs 5 crore for beheading these celebrities. Haasan's films have created a similar political storm in the past and the actor has always been vocal about the importance of cinema in society. Back in 2013, his film Vishwaroopam was banned by the Tamil Nadu government after he was accused of showing the members of Muslim community in a bad light in the film. The allegations were made against his film even before watching it, similar to the Padmavati row. Haasan's Hey Ram also faced severe criticism as many felt it was anti-Gandhi.

Kamal Haasan on 'Padmavati' row: I want Deepika's head...saved

<p>Amid&nbsp;the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-controversy-protests-in-gujarat-maharashtra-24034"><em>Padmavati</em>&#39;&nbsp;</a>row, actress Deepika Padukone has decided not to attend the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ivanka-trump-to-be-a-part-of-the-global-entrepreneurship-summit-in-november-24166">Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) </a>to be&nbsp;held on November 28 in Hyderabad, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US president&#39;s daughter Ivanka Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the high-profile two-day event with entrepreneurs from across the world set to attend the event.</p>

<p>The summit will be attended by thousands of entrepreneurs, investors and ecosystem supporters from around the world which is themed &lsquo;Women First, Prosperity for All&rsquo;.</p>

<p>An official of the Telangana government informed on Monday that Deepika had withdrawn her name from the summit after confirming her participation earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The star was supposed to address one of the sessions &#39;Hollywood to Nollywood to Bollywood: The Path to Moviemaking.&rsquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her reason to pull out of the summit remains unknown, reports stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deepika is at the centre of the row&nbsp;surrounding her movie <em>Padmavati</em>&nbsp;with&nbsp;the Rajput Karni Sena threatening her over her depiction of the Rajput princess.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The summit will be attended by over a thousand entrepreneurs, investors and ecosystem supporters from around the world which is themed &lsquo;Women First, Prosperity for All&rsquo;</p>


Her reason to pull out of the summit remains unknown, reports stated.?

Amid the Padmavati' row, actress Deepika Padukone has decided not to attend the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) to be held on November 28 in Hyderabad, reports said. US president's daughter Ivanka Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the high-profile two-day event with entrepreneurs from across the world set to attend the event. The summit will be attended by thousands of entrepreneurs, investors and ecosystem supporters from around the world which is themed ‘Women First, Prosperity for All’. An official of the Telangana government informed on Monday that Deepika had withdrawn her name from the summit after confirming her participation earlier. The star was supposed to address one of the sessions 'Hollywood to Nollywood to Bollywood: The Path to Moviemaking.’ Her reason to pull out of the summit remains unknown, reports stated. Deepika is at the centre of the row surrounding her movie Padmavati with the Rajput Karni Sena threatening her over her depiction of the Rajput princess. The summit will be attended by over a thousand entrepreneurs, investors and ecosystem supporters from around the world which is themed ‘Women First, Prosperity for All’

Deepika Padukone withdraws from Global Entrepreneurship Summit amid 'Padmavati' row

<p>Speaking for the first time since controversy around <em>Padmavati</em> broke out, actor Ranveer Singh said he is 200% with his film and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The actor said, &quot;I am 200% with the film and my director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, I have been asked not to say anything, whatever official stand is, you will get it from producers.It&#39;s a very sensitive issue.&quot;&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Speaking for the first time since controversy around Padmavati broke out, actor Ranveer Singh said he is 200% with his film and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali. (WION Web Team)</p>
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<p>Ranveer plays the character of Allaudin Khilji in the film. The film has been facing severe opposition from various groups and political leaders over its content.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Previously, on Monday, on the sidelines of IFFI 2017, Ranveer&#39;s co-star in the film Shahid Kapoor said, &quot;Our constitution says that you are innocent until proven guilty. Same should be extended to <em>Padmavati</em>, it should not be considered guilty even before it is provided for people to judge it.&quot;</p>


Ranveer plays the character of Allaudin Khilji in the film

Speaking for the first time since controversy around Padmavati broke out, actor Ranveer Singh said he is 200% with his film and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The actor said, "I am 200% with the film and my director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, I have been asked not to say anything, whatever official stand is, you will get it from producers.It's a very sensitive issue." Speaking for the first time since controversy around Padmavati broke out, actor Ranveer Singh said he is 200% with his film and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali. (WION Web Team) × Ranveer plays the character of Allaudin Khilji in the film. The film has been facing severe opposition from various groups and political leaders over its content. Previously, on Monday, on the sidelines of IFFI 2017, Ranveer's co-star in the film Shahid Kapoor said, "Our constitution says that you are innocent until proven guilty. Same should be extended to Padmavati, it should not be considered guilty even before it is provided for people to judge it."

Ranveer Singh on Padmavati: I am 200% with Sanjay Leela Bhansali

<p>Shahid Kapoor on Monday categorically stated people should not be judging <em>Padmavati </em>without watching the film. The actor walked the red carpet at the opening ceremony of IFFI 2017 in Goa and spoke to media about the controversy around <em>Padmavati.&nbsp;&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&quot;Our constitution says that you are innocent until proven guilty. Same should be extended to <em>Padmavati</em>, it should not be considered guilty even before it is provided for people to judge it,&quot; the actor said.<br />
<br />
Shahid said stopping the release of the film would set a precedent which he would not be &quot;proud&quot; of, adding that he had to suffer a similar ordeal with his earlier film Udta Punjab.<br />
<br />
&quot;It will be a precedent which I am not proud of if the film finds it difficult to release... I went through a similar process in <em>Udta Punjab</em>,&quot; Kapoor told reporters at IFFI.<br />
<br />
&quot;I don&#39;t think there is anything in the film that is unacceptable or that is not in good taste. Eventually, <em>Padmavati</em> will come out and in full force,&quot; the actor added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our constitution says that you are innocent until proven guilty. Same should be extended to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a>, it should not be considered guilty even before it is provided for people to judge it: Shahid Kapoor <a href="https://t.co/8D7YDJpOWN">pic.twitter.com/8D7YDJpOWN</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/932569850316169217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Censor board chief Prasoon Joshi stated that the matter had to be resolved by dialogue and not by arguing over it. &quot;We are trying to follow processes. Instead of arguments, attempts are being made to have a dialogue on the issue.&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Vivaad ki jagah vichaar-vimarsh ki aavshyakta hai: Prasoon Joshi, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairperson <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a> <a href="https://t.co/7Hu6QlFnep">pic.twitter.com/7Hu6QlFnep</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/932571983107186688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>The board, on Saturday, sent back the film without certifying&nbsp;it citing the makers had not completed documentation process properly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Shahid and Prasoon Joshi spoke about the controversy around Padmavati at the inaugural function of IFFI 2017

Shahid Kapoor on Monday categorically stated people should not be judging Padmavati without watching the film. The actor walked the red carpet at the opening ceremony of IFFI 2017 in Goa and spoke to media about the controversy around Padmavati. "Our constitution says that you are innocent until proven guilty. Same should be extended to Padmavati, it should not be considered guilty even before it is provided for people to judge it," the actor said. Shahid said stopping the release of the film would set a precedent which he would not be "proud" of, adding that he had to suffer a similar ordeal with his earlier film Udta Punjab. "It will be a precedent which I am not proud of if the film finds it difficult to release... I went through a similar process in Udta Punjab," Kapoor told reporters at IFFI. "I don't think there is anything in the film that is unacceptable or that is not in good taste. Eventually, Padmavati will come out and in full force," the actor added. Our constitution says that you are innocent until proven guilty. Same should be extended to #Padmavati, it should not be considered guilty even before it is provided for people to judge it: Shahid Kapoor pic.twitter.com/8D7YDJpOWN — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2017 × Censor board chief Prasoon Joshi stated that the matter had to be resolved by dialogue and not by arguing over it. "We are trying to follow processes. Instead of arguments, attempts are being made to have a dialogue on the issue." Vivaad ki jagah vichaar-vimarsh ki aavshyakta hai: Prasoon Joshi, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairperson #Padmavati pic.twitter.com/7Hu6QlFnep — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2017 × The board, on Saturday, sent back the film without certifying it citing the makers had not completed documentation process properly.

Watch it, then judge Padmavati: Shahid Kapoor

<p>The controversy around the film Padmavati refuses to die down. Even without waiting for the Censor Board&#39;s decision on the film, the Madhya Pradesh government has banned it today. This was preceded by weeks of violent protest by the Karni Sena, a Rajput caste organisation who claims to uphold the goal of national unity.</p>

<p>The members went so far as to issue physical threats against both Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Deepika Padukone, the director and heroine respectively. The jealous defenders of Rajput pride and Hindu nationalism consider the film to be inappropriate. The allegation is the film has a scene where the famed Rajput sati-queen is shown to be dancing in front of the brutal Muslim invader Alauddin Khalji.</p>

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<h5>It was a very common practise among the nationalists of the Swadeshi Age to eulogise Rani Padmini and other Rajput/Maratha icons who resisted Muslims as national heroes and defenders of Indian tradition.</h5>
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<p>The repeated denials issued by Sanjay so far has failed to pacify the agitators. Consequently, the producers of Padmavati has decided to postpone the release date of the film.</p>

<p>Whereas those protesting the immoral portrayal of Padmavati feel all righteous about their celebrated cause, there are many in India who doesn&#39;t see how such a hullabaloo can be created over the celluloid portrayal of a mythical character. The latter are annoyed with such display of intolerance and goes on to blame the Indian government for the lack of support it has shown so far to defend Deepika and Sanjay.</p>

<p>Veteran actress Shabana Azmi has taken a strong stand today, issuing a clarion call in support of boycotting IFFI. Incidentally, India&#39;s most prestigious film festival is scheduled to be inaugurated today at Goa.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The entire film industry should boycott IFFI in protest against the threats to <a href="https://twitter.com/deepikapadukone?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@deepikapadukone</a> SLB and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a> <a href="https://t.co/VckVB5yRJp">https://t.co/VckVB5yRJp</a></p>
&mdash; Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) <a href="https://twitter.com/AzmiShabana/status/931762168327946240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>As the nation awaits this violence and vandalism around Padmavati to wane quickly, the intensity of the responses of those who felt that Padmavati has been dishonoured in the film needs closer probing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Why are so many people riled up? Even the state governments are not showing restraint as it clear from Madhya Pradesh&#39;s decision to ban the film even before its release. Honestly, this kind of response from one or the other of the BJP-ruled state was not entirely unexpected because of the prudish line they have taken in the past. But what they are saying in defense of their action is what I find reprehensible.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>:Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan says the film which has distorted facts against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a>, will not be released in the state <a href="https://t.co/NOBXj6WF3P">pic.twitter.com/NOBXj6WF3P</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/932521044325277696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>First of all, the 50 BJP MLAs who have lodged their resentment against the movie have not seen the movie. They have, in fact, demanded, a &#39;thorough&#39; screening of the movie before it is released. And what is the basis of their demand? The protesting MLAs are against any &#39;distortion of historical facts&#39;.</p>

<p>So far, all articulations that Padmavati is most possibly a mythical figure, the subject of poems and songs of local bards who drew inspiration from Sufi poet Muhammad Jayasi&#39;s work has fallen on deaf ears. The Higher Education Minister of Madhya Pradesh, who ought to have known better, has also pointed out that Padmavati was &quot;not only a queen but a symbol of Jauhar&quot;.</p>

<p>The replacement of history by myth is a pretty old practise in India. In the days of anti-colonial struggle, such historicisation of myth served the purpose of inspiring a nascent national community to structure its identity around few chosen icons. These icons, mostly culled from Hindu past, were historically shown to put up a resistance against Muslim tyranny.</p>

<p>Thus, when Rabindranath Tagore&#39;s nephew, the famous artist Abanindranath Tagore wrote Rajkahini, he portrayed Padmavati (Rani Padmini) as the heart and soul of Rajput resistance against the treacherous attack of Alauddin Khalji.</p>

<p>It was a very common practise among the nationalists of the Swadeshi Age to eulogise Rani Padmini and other Rajput and Maratha icons who resisted Muslims as national heroes and defenders of Indian tradition. Thus, Padmini was simply transported from the pages of fiction and given a new lease of life as historical figures of flesh and blood.</p>

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<h5>If Padmavati was a symbol of resistance for the anti-colonialist firebrand youths of India, she has transformed into a revered symbol of chastity and womanhood under the current political regime.</h5>
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<p>In their struggle against the oppressive colonial regime, the inspiring Sannyasi rebels of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay&#39;s Anandamath as well as Rani Padmini provided the young revolutionary nationalists a moral and ideological sustenance.</p>

<p>If Padmavati was a symbol of resistance for the anti-colonialist firebrand youths of India, she has transformed into a revered symbol of chastity and womanhood under the current political regime.</p>

<p>In the current time when the fervour of nationalism runs rather high, the ideologically conservative camp and its many constituent groups are hellbent on creating a sacrosanct image of India where the line between myth and history are purposefully kept blurred to serve the political purpose. In the name of cultural nationalism, we are harping on the glory of being a woman of chastity.</p>

<p>All Hindu woman, to be counted as a Hindu woman, needs to be virtuous. The litmus test of virtue, as we all know, is self-sacrifice in face of dishonour as have been done by Sita, by Padmini.</p>

<p>Within this moral trope, Padmavati&#39;s observance of <em>jauhar</em><em> </em><em>vrata</em> becomes an act of resistance against lustful Muslim men. Padmini fought the invaders with her body through sacrificing it. The sacrifice makes Padmini holy, her body becomes the site where chastity and patriotism become perfectly blended. How can such a body, which is an embodiment of a defiant spirit, succumb to earthly pleasure. Such (human) being can&#39;t dance, can&#39;t seek pleasure, can&#39;t cringe in pain.</p>

<p>It is, therefore, redundant to ask whether Rani Padmavati historically existed or not. She has become, for all intent purpose, a symbol. The universal symbol of all chaste Hindu women. That is the reason Padmavati shall not dance. Not even in a celluloid dream sequence.</p>


Padmavati is a universal symbol of all chaste Hindu women. That is the reason Padmavati shall not dance.

The controversy around the film Padmavati refuses to die down. Even without waiting for the Censor Board's decision on the film, the Madhya Pradesh government has banned it today. This was preceded by weeks of violent protest by the Karni Sena, a Rajput caste organisation who claims to uphold the goal of national unity. The members went so far as to issue physical threats against both Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Deepika Padukone, the director and heroine respectively. The jealous defenders of Rajput pride and Hindu nationalism consider the film to be inappropriate. The allegation is the film has a scene where the famed Rajput sati-queen is shown to be dancing in front of the brutal Muslim invader Alauddin Khalji. It was a very common practise among the nationalists of the Swadeshi Age to eulogise Rani Padmini and other Rajput/Maratha icons who resisted Muslims as national heroes and defenders of Indian tradition. × The repeated denials issued by Sanjay so far has failed to pacify the agitators. Consequently, the producers of Padmavati has decided to postpone the release date of the film. Whereas those protesting the immoral portrayal of Padmavati feel all righteous about their celebrated cause, there are many in India who doesn't see how such a hullabaloo can be created over the celluloid portrayal of a mythical character. The latter are annoyed with such display of intolerance and goes on to blame the Indian government for the lack of support it has shown so far to defend Deepika and Sanjay. Veteran actress Shabana Azmi has taken a strong stand today, issuing a clarion call in support of boycotting IFFI. Incidentally, India's most prestigious film festival is scheduled to be inaugurated today at Goa. The entire film industry should boycott IFFI in protest against the threats to @deepikapadukone SLB and #Padmavati https://t.co/VckVB5yRJp — Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) November 18, 2017 × As the nation awaits this violence and vandalism around Padmavati to wane quickly, the intensity of the responses of those who felt that Padmavati has been dishonoured in the film needs closer probing. Why are so many people riled up? Even the state governments are not showing restraint as it clear from Madhya Pradesh's decision to ban the film even before its release. Honestly, this kind of response from one or the other of the BJP-ruled state was not entirely unexpected because of the prudish line they have taken in the past. But what they are saying in defense of their action is what I find reprehensible. #WATCH:Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan says the film which has distorted facts against #Padmavati, will not be released in the state pic.twitter.com/NOBXj6WF3P — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2017 × First of all, the 50 BJP MLAs who have lodged their resentment against the movie have not seen the movie. They have, in fact, demanded, a 'thorough' screening of the movie before it is released. And what is the basis of their demand? The protesting MLAs are against any 'distortion of historical facts'. So far, all articulations that Padmavati is most possibly a mythical figure, the subject of poems and songs of local bards who drew inspiration from Sufi poet Muhammad Jayasi's work has fallen on deaf ears. The Higher Education Minister of Madhya Pradesh, who ought to have known better, has also pointed out that Padmavati was "not only a queen but a symbol of Jauhar". The replacement of history by myth is a pretty old practise in India. In the days of anti-colonial struggle, such historicisation of myth served the purpose of inspiring a nascent national community to structure its identity around few chosen icons. These icons, mostly culled from Hindu past, were historically shown to put up a resistance against Muslim tyranny. Thus, when Rabindranath Tagore's nephew, the famous artist Abanindranath Tagore wrote Rajkahini, he portrayed Padmavati (Rani Padmini) as the heart and soul of Rajput resistance against the treacherous attack of Alauddin Khalji. It was a very common practise among the nationalists of the Swadeshi Age to eulogise Rani Padmini and other Rajput and Maratha icons who resisted Muslims as national heroes and defenders of Indian tradition. Thus, Padmini was simply transported from the pages of fiction and given a new lease of life as historical figures of flesh and blood. If Padmavati was a symbol of resistance for the anti-colonialist firebrand youths of India, she has transformed into a revered symbol of chastity and womanhood under the current political regime. × In their struggle against the oppressive colonial regime, the inspiring Sannyasi rebels of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's Anandamath as well as Rani Padmini provided the young revolutionary nationalists a moral and ideological sustenance. If Padmavati was a symbol of resistance for the anti-colonialist firebrand youths of India, she has transformed into a revered symbol of chastity and womanhood under the current political regime. In the current time when the fervour of nationalism runs rather high, the ideologically conservative camp and its many constituent groups are hellbent on creating a sacrosanct image of India where the line between myth and history are purposefully kept blurred to serve the political purpose. In the name of cultural nationalism, we are harping on the glory of being a woman of chastity. All Hindu woman, to be counted as a Hindu woman, needs to be virtuous. The litmus test of virtue, as we all know, is self-sacrifice in face of dishonour as have been done by Sita, by Padmini. Within this moral trope, Padmavati's observance of jauhar vrata becomes an act of resistance against lustful Muslim men. Padmini fought the invaders with her body through sacrificing it. The sacrifice makes Padmini holy, her body becomes the site where chastity and patriotism become perfectly blended. How can such a body, which is an embodiment of a defiant spirit, succumb to earthly pleasure. Such (human) being can't dance, can't seek pleasure, can't cringe in pain. It is, therefore, redundant to ask whether Rani Padmavati historically existed or not. She has become, for all intent purpose, a symbol. The universal symbol of all chaste Hindu women. That is the reason Padmavati shall not dance. Not even in a celluloid dream sequence.

Rani Padmavati shall not dance. But why?

<p>The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a plea filed by a senior lawyer, Manohar Lal Sharma seeking direction to delete certain objectionable scenes from the movie, <em>Padmavati.</em><br />
<br />
The court has categorically refused to interfere with censor board&#39;s matter.&nbsp;<br />
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In the plea filed on Friday, Sharma also sought prosecution of the filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Supreme Court refuses to interfere in the matter of film <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a>&#39;s release. The court was hearing a plea filed by a lawyer and stated, &#39;we cannot interfere with CBFC&#39;s work&#39; <a href="https://t.co/vH6N3iUErd">pic.twitter.com/vH6N3iUErd</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/932560875088576513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier on November 10, the Supreme Court rejected the petition filed against the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali`s magnum opus <em>Padmavati</em>, saying the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has not yet issued a certificate to the movie.<br />
<br />
The film has been embroiled in a spate of controversies ever since its inception.The period drama starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor has been facing protests from various communal groups, including Shree Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering historical facts.&nbsp;</p>


The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a plea filed by a senior lawyer, Manohar Lal Sharma seeking direction to delete certain objectionable scenes from the movie, Padmavati

The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a plea filed by a senior lawyer, Manohar Lal Sharma seeking direction to delete certain objectionable scenes from the movie, Padmavati. The court has categorically refused to interfere with censor board's matter. In the plea filed on Friday, Sharma also sought prosecution of the filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Supreme Court refuses to interfere in the matter of film #Padmavati's release. The court was hearing a plea filed by a lawyer and stated, 'we cannot interfere with CBFC's work' pic.twitter.com/vH6N3iUErd — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2017 × Earlier on November 10, the Supreme Court rejected the petition filed against the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali`s magnum opus Padmavati, saying the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has not yet issued a certificate to the movie. The film has been embroiled in a spate of controversies ever since its inception.The period drama starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor has been facing protests from various communal groups, including Shree Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering historical facts.

Supreme Court refuses to intervene in Padmavati release, says cannot 'interfere with CBFC's work'

<p>Known to speak her mind on raging issues, actress Shabana Azmi on Sunday lashed out the government&#39;s role in the raging<em> Padmavati </em>controversy.&nbsp;Azmi asked the film industry to unite and fight against the system as one over the controversy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;The entire film industry in one voice must boycott IFFI Goa in protest against the threats issued to Deepika Padukone Sanjay Leela Bhansali and <em>Padmavati,</em>&quot; she said in a statement.<br />
<br />
The International Film Festival of India is scheduled to begin from November 20th in Goa. The festival will end on November 28th and will have some of the prominent names of the film industry in attendance. Shah Rukh Khan is going to be opening the festival on Monday evening.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In a series of tweets, Azmi expressed her anger over government&#39;s role over the controversy that has gripped the film.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;Smriti Irani is preparing IFFI dats possible only bcoz the Indian Film Industry brings such acclaim to it but keeps quiet about Padmavati! This is exactly like HKL Bhagat and Congress celebrating IFFI in Delhi after the murder of Safdar Hashmi in 1989.Cultural Annihilation(sic)&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Smriti Irani is preparing IFFI dats possible only bcoz the Indian Film Industry brings such acclaim to it but keeps quiet about Padmavati!</p>
&mdash; Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) <a href="https://twitter.com/AzmiShabana/status/931760706273271808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is exactly like HKL Bhagat and Congress celebrating IFFI in Delhi after the murder of Safdar Hashmi in 1989.Cultural Annihilation</p>
&mdash; Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) <a href="https://twitter.com/AzmiShabana/status/931761316406050817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The entire film industry should boycott IFFI in protest against the threats to <a href="https://twitter.com/deepikapadukone?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@deepikapadukone</a> SLB and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a> <a href="https://t.co/VckVB5yRJp">https://t.co/VckVB5yRJp</a></p>
&mdash; Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) <a href="https://twitter.com/AzmiShabana/status/931762168327946240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Azmi also questioned the Censor board&#39;s decision of sending back the film and stated that it was a political move. &quot;#Padmavatis application to CBFC has been sent back bcoz of incomplete formalities! Really? Or to keep fires stoked for electoral gains?&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavatis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavatis</a> application to CBFC has been sent back bcoz of incomplete formalities! Really? Or to keep fires stoked for electoral gains?</p>
&mdash; Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) <a href="https://twitter.com/AzmiShabana/status/931573786633125889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sabki dukaan chal rahi hai under the patronage not of the fringe but of the Govt in power. Filmindustry must stand as 1 with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a></p>
&mdash; Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) <a href="https://twitter.com/AzmiShabana/status/931640801204957185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>On November 18th, the Censor board decided to send back the film without certifying it citing &#39;deficiency in the application&#39;<br />
<br />
According to the CBFC, the movie, which has been facing protest from several Rajput groups, will be reviewed as per the set norms once it is sent back to the board after sorting out the issue.</p>


In a series of tweets, Azmi expressed her anger over the government's role in the controversy that has gripped the film

Known to speak her mind on raging issues, actress Shabana Azmi on Sunday lashed out the government's role in the raging Padmavati controversy. Azmi asked the film industry to unite and fight against the system as one over the controversy. "The entire film industry in one voice must boycott IFFI Goa in protest against the threats issued to Deepika Padukone Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Padmavati," she said in a statement. The International Film Festival of India is scheduled to begin from November 20th in Goa. The festival will end on November 28th and will have some of the prominent names of the film industry in attendance. Shah Rukh Khan is going to be opening the festival on Monday evening. In a series of tweets, Azmi expressed her anger over government's role over the controversy that has gripped the film. "Smriti Irani is preparing IFFI dats possible only bcoz the Indian Film Industry brings such acclaim to it but keeps quiet about Padmavati! This is exactly like HKL Bhagat and Congress celebrating IFFI in Delhi after the murder of Safdar Hashmi in 1989.Cultural Annihilation(sic)" Smriti Irani is preparing IFFI dats possible only bcoz the Indian Film Industry brings such acclaim to it but keeps quiet about Padmavati! — Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) November 18, 2017 × This is exactly like HKL Bhagat and Congress celebrating IFFI in Delhi after the murder of Safdar Hashmi in 1989.Cultural Annihilation — Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) November 18, 2017 × The entire film industry should boycott IFFI in protest against the threats to @deepikapadukone SLB and #Padmavati https://t.co/VckVB5yRJp — Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) November 18, 2017 × Azmi also questioned the Censor board's decision of sending back the film and stated that it was a political move. "#Padmavatis application to CBFC has been sent back bcoz of incomplete formalities! Really? Or to keep fires stoked for electoral gains?" #Padmavatis application to CBFC has been sent back bcoz of incomplete formalities! Really? Or to keep fires stoked for electoral gains? — Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) November 17, 2017 × Sabki dukaan chal rahi hai under the patronage not of the fringe but of the Govt in power. Filmindustry must stand as 1 with #Padmavati — Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) November 17, 2017 × On November 18th, the Censor board decided to send back the film without certifying it citing 'deficiency in the application' According to the CBFC, the movie, which has been facing protest from several Rajput groups, will be reviewed as per the set norms once it is sent back to the board after sorting out the issue.

Supporting 'Padmavati', Shabana Azmi tells film industry to boycott IFFI

<p>In a fresh blow to the makers of <em>Padmavati</em>, the Central Board of Film Certification has turned down the application that they had sent seeking to expedite certification process of the movie.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On November 16th, CBFC had sent back the film without certifying it citing &#39;technical issues&#39; with the film. The film was earlier scheduled to release on December 1, but the release date of the film has been deferred.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Monday, CBFC turned down the plea of Padmavati makers and said that the movie will be reviewed and certified as per set norms of following chronological order of all applications.<br />
<br />
Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-padmavati-row-now-shivraj-singh-chuahan-bans-the-film-in-madhya-pradesh-24645"> Madhya Pradesh government bans the screening of Padmavati in the state</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FLASH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FLASH</a> Central Board of Film Certification turns down application by makers of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a> seeking to expedite Certification process of the movie <a href="https://t.co/zlRjHOwtTe">pic.twitter.com/zlRjHOwtTe</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/932511442707685382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Turning down plea of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a> makers, CBFC said that the movie will be reviewed and certified as per set norms of following chronological order of all applications.</p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/932511658911469568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Saturday, CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi had expressed his disappointment after the makers held a private screening of the film for select members of the media without a valid certificate.&nbsp;The film has been facing a lot of opposition from various state governments and Rajput outfits over depicting wrong facts in the film.&nbsp;</p>


In a fresh blow to the makers of Padmavati, the Central Board of Film Certification has turned down the application that they had sent seeking to expedite certification process of the movie. On November 16th, CBFC had sent back the film without certifying it citing 'technical issues' with the film. The film was earlier scheduled to release on December 1, but the release date of the film has been deferred. On Monday, CBFC turned down the plea of Padmavati makers and said that the movie will be reviewed and certified as per set norms of following chronological order of all applications. Also read: Madhya Pradesh government bans the screening of Padmavati in the state #FLASH Central Board of Film Certification turns down application by makers of #Padmavati seeking to expedite Certification process of the movie pic.twitter.com/zlRjHOwtTe — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2017 × Turning down plea of #Padmavati makers, CBFC said that the movie will be reviewed and certified as per set norms of following chronological order of all applications. — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2017 × On Saturday, CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi had expressed his disappointment after the makers held a private screening of the film for select members of the media without a valid certificate. The film has been facing a lot of opposition from various state governments and Rajput outfits over depicting wrong facts in the film.

Padmavati row: CBFC rejects application to expedite certification process

<p>The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to not screen Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s film <em>Padmavati </em>in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The decision was taken by the state CM Shivraj Singh Chauhan after the Rajput Community in the state submitted a memorandum seeking a ban on the film.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-padmavati-row-cbfc-rejects-application-to-expedite-certification-process-24639">&nbsp;CBFC rejects application to expedite certification process</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>:Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan says the film which has distorted facts against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a>, will not be released in the state <a href="https://t.co/NOBXj6WF3P">pic.twitter.com/NOBXj6WF3P</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/932521044325277696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Incidentally, the makers have deferred the film&#39;s release which was earlier scheduled to release on December 1.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Before Madhya Pradesh, distributors refused to pick up the film in Rajasthan too.<br />
<br />
Spearheaded by the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, several groups have taken to the streets to protest against the screening of the film in various parts of the country.They&#39;ve abused and given the Padmavati cast and crew dire life threats, as well.</p>

<p>Earlier&nbsp;last week, UP government had sent a letter to CBFC to consider people&#39;s sentiments and consider the peace and harmony of the country while certifying the film. BJP leaders in Gujarat had also sought a ban on <em>Padmavati </em>in the state as the release date was clashing with Gujarat assembly elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to not screen Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film Padmavati in the state

The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to not screen Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film Padmavati in the state. The decision was taken by the state CM Shivraj Singh Chauhan after the Rajput Community in the state submitted a memorandum seeking a ban on the film. Also read: CBFC rejects application to expedite certification process #WATCH:Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan says the film which has distorted facts against #Padmavati, will not be released in the state pic.twitter.com/NOBXj6WF3P — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2017 × Incidentally, the makers have deferred the film's release which was earlier scheduled to release on December 1. Before Madhya Pradesh, distributors refused to pick up the film in Rajasthan too. Spearheaded by the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, several groups have taken to the streets to protest against the screening of the film in various parts of the country.They've abused and given the Padmavati cast and crew dire life threats, as well. Earlier last week, UP government had sent a letter to CBFC to consider people's sentiments and consider the peace and harmony of the country while certifying the film. BJP leaders in Gujarat had also sought a ban on Padmavati in the state as the release date was clashing with Gujarat assembly elections.

Padmavati row: Shivraj Singh Chauhan bans film in Madhya Pradesh

<p>The Supreme Court on Monday will hear a plea filed by a senior lawyer, Manohar Lal Sharma seeking direction to delete certain objectionable scenes from the movie, <em>Padmavati</em>.&nbsp;In the plea filed on Friday, Sharma also sought prosecution of the filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali.</p>

<p>Earlier on November 10, the Supreme Court rejected the petition filed against the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali`s magnum opus <em>Padmavati</em>, saying the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has not yet issued a certificate to the movie.</p>

<p>The film has been embroiled in a spate of controversies ever since its inception.The period drama starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor has been facing protests from various communal groups, including Shree Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering historical facts.&nbsp;</p>


The Supreme Court on Monday will hear a plea filed by senior lawyer, Manohar Lal Sharma seeking direction to delete certain objectionable scenes from the movie.

The Supreme Court on Monday will hear a plea filed by a senior lawyer, Manohar Lal Sharma seeking direction to delete certain objectionable scenes from the movie, Padmavati. In the plea filed on Friday, Sharma also sought prosecution of the filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Earlier on November 10, the Supreme Court rejected the petition filed against the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali`s magnum opus Padmavati, saying the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has not yet issued a certificate to the movie. The film has been embroiled in a spate of controversies ever since its inception.The period drama starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor has been facing protests from various communal groups, including Shree Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering historical facts.

Padmavati row: SC to hear plea against makers to remove ''objectionable'' content

<p>The BJP leader who offered a Rs 10-crore bounty to anybody who beheaded Padmavati director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Deepika Padukone, who plays the title role in the film, has been ordered by his party to apologise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters reported that Sural Pal Amu, the Harayana BJP&#39;s media coordinator has been ordered to apologise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PTI reported that the BJP had issued a show-cause notice to Amu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The offer of a bounty -- of Rs 5 crore -- had originally been made by a man from Meerut called Thakur Abhishek Som.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amu doubled the offer to Rs 10 crore during an Akhil Bharatiya Kshatriya Mahasabha function in New Delhi on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ANI reported him as saying: &quot;Want to congratulate Meerut youth 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&#39;s needs.&quot;</p>

<p>Amu reportedly also threatened to break actor Ranveer Singh&#39;s legs if he did not take back his words of support for the film and its director.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Singh plays Allaudin Khalji in the film.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There have been massive protests against the release of the film Padmavati.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rajput and Hindu groups say the film distorts history, and depicts a Muslim invader (Allaudi Khalji, sultan of Delhi) as the hero, and the Rana of Chittor and his queen (Padmavati) as victims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The movie&#39;s makers have finally decided to delay the release of the film &quot;voluntarily&quot;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-producers-postpone-films-release-24582">&#39;Padmavati&#39; row: Producers postpone film&#39;s release; protests intensify </a></p>

<p>Historians however say that Padmavati never existed. She was not a&nbsp;historical figure but a literary character.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They point out that Khalji invaded and defeated Chittor in 1303 -- but that the first mention of Padmavati is made in a book of poems written in 1520 by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There is no record of her having existed before that.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-padmavati-plea-rejected-sc-refuses-to-interfere-in-cbfcs-matter-24660">Supreme Court refuses to intervene in Padmavati release, says cannot &#39;interfere with CBFC&#39;s work&#39; </a></p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp; <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-punjab-cm-says-those-who-are-protesting-are-rightly-doing-so-24652">On Padmavati&nbsp;</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-punjab-cm-says-those-who-are-protesting-are-rightly-doing-so-24652">protest</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-punjab-cm-says-those-who-are-protesting-are-rightly-doing-so-24652"> Amarinder Singh says those &#39;</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-punjab-cm-says-those-who-are-protesting-are-rightly-doing-so-24652">protesting</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-punjab-cm-says-those-who-are-protesting-are-rightly-doing-so-24652"> are rightly doing so&#39;</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The offer was made by Haryana BJP media coordinator Suraj Pal Amu

The BJP leader who offered a Rs 10-crore bounty to anybody who beheaded Padmavati director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Deepika Padukone, who plays the title role in the film, has been ordered by his party to apologise. Reuters reported that Sural Pal Amu, the Harayana BJP's media coordinator has been ordered to apologise. PTI reported that the BJP had issued a show-cause notice to Amu. The offer of a bounty -- of Rs 5 crore -- had originally been made by a man from Meerut called Thakur Abhishek Som. Amu doubled the offer to Rs 10 crore during an Akhil Bharatiya Kshatriya Mahasabha function in New Delhi on Sunday. ANI reported him as saying: "Want to congratulate Meerut youth 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." Amu reportedly also threatened to break actor Ranveer Singh's legs if he did not take back his words of support for the film and its director. Singh plays Allaudin Khalji in the film. There have been massive protests against the release of the film Padmavati. Rajput and Hindu groups say the film distorts history, and depicts a Muslim invader (Allaudi Khalji, sultan of Delhi) as the hero, and the Rana of Chittor and his queen (Padmavati) as victims. The movie's makers have finally decided to delay the release of the film "voluntarily". Also read: 'Padmavati' row: Producers postpone film's release; protests intensify Historians however say that Padmavati never existed. She was not a historical figure but a literary character. They point out that Khalji invaded and defeated Chittor in 1303 -- but that the first mention of Padmavati is made in a book of poems written in 1520 by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi. There is no record of her having existed before that. Also read: Supreme Court refuses to intervene in Padmavati release, says cannot 'interfere with CBFC's work' Also read: On Padmavati protest Amarinder Singh says those 'protesting are rightly doing so'

Rs 10-crore bounty to behead Bhansali, Deepika: BJP orders its leader who made offer to apologise

<p>Amid the raging protests over &quot;Padmavati&quot;, the film&#39;s co-producers Viacom18 Motion Pictures said Sunday that have postponed the release date of the Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed film.</p>

<p>Padmavati, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor was up for release on December 1. The film has been co-produced by&nbsp;Viacom 18 Motion Pictures and Bhansali Productions.</p>

<p>A spokesperson of Viacom18 Motion Pictures said that it had taken the decision &quot;voluntarily&quot; and would soon announce the new release date for the film.</p>

<p>&quot;Viacom18 Motion Pictures, the studio behind &quot;Padmavati&quot;, has voluntarily deferred the release date of the film from December 1 2017,&quot; Viacom18 stated.</p>

<p>The spokesman said it had the highest regard for the law of the land and statutory bodies such as the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).&nbsp;(Also Read - <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-makers-putting-pressure-to-clear-film-censor-board-chairman-24513">Padmavati&#39; makers putting pressure to clear film: Censor board chairman</a>)</p>

<p>As a &quot;responsible and law-abiding corporate citizen&quot;, it was committed to following the established procedure and convention, it said.</p>

<p>&quot;...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,&quot; the statement said.</p>

<p>&quot;We have faith that we will soon obtain the requisite clearances to release the film,&quot; the statement read.</p>

<p>&quot;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 &quot;Toilet: Ek Prem Katha&quot;, &quot;Queen&quot;, &quot;Bhaag Milkha Bhaag&quot; and many more,&quot; it added.</p>

<p>The makers reiterated that the film was a cinematic masterpiece capturing &quot;Rajput valour, dignity and tradition in all its glory&quot;.</p>

<p>&quot;The film is an eloquent portrayal of a tale that will fill every Indian with pride and showcase our country&#39;s story-telling prowess across the globe,&quot; it said.</p>

<p>The statement comes in the wake of the criticism by the Censor Board chief Prasoon Joshi who had yesterday criticised the filmmakers for putting pressure on the censor board to clear the film without completing the paperwork.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He had also slammed the filmmakers for screening the film for the press and on national channels without the censor board &quot;having seen or certified&quot; the film.</p>

<p>The CBFC had sent the film back to the producer as the application for the certification was &quot;incomplete&quot;.</p>

<p><strong>Protests intensify</strong></p>

<p>Protests against the film continued on Sunday.</p>

<p>Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya said his government would not allow the film to release in Uttar Pradesh &quot;unless and until objectionable scenes are removed.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;The screening has been deferred by a few days, we will also wait for a few days and see,&quot; Lokendra Singh Kalvi, President of the Rajput Karni Sena, which is at the forefront of the protests said today on calls for a shutdown on December 1.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajput-karni-sena-president-wont-let-padmavati-release-calls-for-bharat-bandh-on-dec-1-24505">On&nbsp; Saturday, the Rajput Karni Sena president had said that he had given a call for &#39;&#39;Bharat Bandh&#39;&#39; on December 1</a> and won&#39;t allow the release of Padmavati. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Haryana BJP&#39;s chief media coordinator SP Amu said on Sunday he would reward those who beheaded Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Deepika Padukone with Rs 10 crores. He also threatened to break actor Ranveer Singh&#39;s legs if he didn&#39;t &quot;take his words back.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;Want to congratulate Meerut youth 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&#39;s needs,&quot; SP Amu said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;If you (Ranveer Singh) don&#39;t take your words back, we will break your legs and hand them to you.&quot;</p>

<p>Haryana BJP&#39;s chief media coordinator threatened to quit the BJP if needed and asked prime minister Narendra Modi to exercise his powers to strike down the film.<br />
<br />
Members of the Akhil Bharatiya Kshatriya Mahasabha brandished swords and protested against the film in Delhi.</p>

<p>Members of the Akhand Rashtrawadi Party staged a demonstration against Padmavati in Delhi and said they have filed a Public Interest Litigation in the Delhi High Court against the film.<br />
<br />
Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje on Saturday wrote to Information and Broadcasting minister Smriti Irani requesting her that the film &quot;Padmavati&quot; should not be released until some changes are made to it so that it &quot;does not hurt the sentiments of any community&quot;.</p>

<p>In her letter, the Rajasthan chief minister has suggested that a committee should be formed to discuss the film and its plot and should suggest amendments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Rajasthan government had earlier this month suggested that a committee should be set up to examine the facts related to the film.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Supreme Court has refused to stay the film and said that the Central Board of Film Certification or the censor board follows guidelines and considers all aspects before granting a certificate to any film.</p>

<p>&quot;Padmavati&quot; has been in the centre of a storm ever since filming began earlier this year.</p>

<p>The Rajput Karni Sena had vandalised the film sets in Jaipur and Kolhapur and also allegedly assaulted Sanjay Leeka Bhansali during shooting in Jaipur.</p>

<p>Various Rajput groups, the Rajasthan BJP and the Bajrang Dal have claimed that the director has &quot;distorted&quot; historical facts.</p>

<p>Their objection is to an alleged dream sequence between Ranveer Singh&#39;s Alauddin Khilji and Deepika Padukone&#39;s Rani Padmini, on which &quot;Padmavati&quot; is based.</p>

<p>Mahipal Singh Makrana of Rajput Karni Sena made a video in which he stated that Rajputs do not raise their hand on women but if need be, they will do to Deepika what Lakshman did to Shurpanakha.</p>

<p>Sanjay Leela Bhansali &nbsp;Deepika Padukone&#39;s security has been increased by the Mumbai police after the threats.</p>

<p>The film fraternity has come out in support of Bhansali and the team, with many leading artistes calling it an attack on creative freedom.&nbsp;</p>


A spokesperson for Viacom18 Motion Pictures said it had taken the decision 'voluntarily'

Amid the raging protests over "Padmavati", the film's co-producers Viacom18 Motion Pictures said Sunday that have postponed the release date of the Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed film. Padmavati, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor was up for release on December 1. The film has been co-produced by Viacom 18 Motion Pictures and Bhansali Productions. A spokesperson of Viacom18 Motion Pictures said that it had taken the decision "voluntarily" and would soon announce the new release date for the film. "Viacom18 Motion Pictures, the studio behind "Padmavati", has voluntarily deferred the release date of the film from December 1 2017," Viacom18 stated. The spokesman said it had the highest regard for the law of the land and statutory bodies such as the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). (Also Read - Padmavati' makers putting pressure to clear film: Censor board chairman) As a "responsible and law-abiding corporate citizen", it was committed to following the established procedure and convention, it said. "...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," the statement said. "We have faith that we will soon obtain the requisite clearances to release the film," the statement read. "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," it added. The makers reiterated that the film was a cinematic masterpiece capturing "Rajput valour, 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," it said. The statement comes in the wake of the criticism by the Censor Board chief Prasoon Joshi who had yesterday criticised the filmmakers for putting pressure on the censor board to clear the film without completing the paperwork. He had also slammed the filmmakers for screening the film for the press and on national channels without the censor board "having seen or certified" the film. The CBFC had sent the film back to the producer as the application for the certification was "incomplete". Protests intensify Protests against the film continued on Sunday. Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya said his government would not allow the film to release in Uttar Pradesh "unless and until objectionable scenes are removed." "The screening has been deferred by a few days, we will also wait for a few days and see," Lokendra Singh Kalvi, President of the Rajput Karni Sena, which is at the forefront of the protests said today on calls for a shutdown on December 1. On Saturday, the Rajput Karni Sena president had said that he had given a call for ''Bharat Bandh'' on December 1 and won't allow the release of Padmavati. Haryana BJP's chief media coordinator SP Amu said on Sunday he would reward those who beheaded Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Deepika Padukone with Rs 10 crores. He also threatened to break actor Ranveer Singh's legs if he didn't "take his words back." "Want to congratulate Meerut youth 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," SP Amu said. "If you (Ranveer Singh) don't take your words back, we will break your legs and hand them to you." Haryana BJP's chief media coordinator threatened to quit the BJP if needed and asked prime minister Narendra Modi to exercise his powers to strike down the film. Members of the Akhil Bharatiya Kshatriya Mahasabha brandished swords and protested against the film in Delhi. Members of the Akhand Rashtrawadi Party staged a demonstration against Padmavati in Delhi and said they have filed a Public Interest Litigation in the Delhi High Court against the film. Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje on Saturday wrote to Information and Broadcasting minister Smriti Irani requesting her that the film "Padmavati" should not be released until some changes are made to it so that it "does not hurt the sentiments of any community". In her letter, the Rajasthan chief minister has suggested that a committee should be formed to discuss the film and its plot and should suggest amendments. The Rajasthan government had earlier this month suggested that a committee should be set up to examine the facts related to the film. The Supreme Court has refused to stay the film and said that the Central Board of Film Certification or the censor board follows guidelines and considers all aspects before granting a certificate to any film. "Padmavati" has been in the centre of a storm ever since filming began earlier this year. The Rajput Karni Sena had vandalised the film sets in Jaipur and Kolhapur and also allegedly assaulted Sanjay Leeka Bhansali during shooting in Jaipur. Various Rajput groups, the Rajasthan BJP and the Bajrang Dal have claimed that the director has "distorted" historical facts. Their objection is to an alleged dream sequence between Ranveer Singh's Alauddin Khilji and Deepika Padukone's Rani Padmini, on which "Padmavati" is based. Mahipal Singh Makrana of Rajput Karni Sena made a video in which he stated that Rajputs do not raise their hand on women but if need be, they will do to Deepika what Lakshman did to Shurpanakha. Sanjay Leela Bhansali Deepika Padukone's security has been increased by the Mumbai police after the threats. The film fraternity has come out in support of Bhansali and the team, with many leading artistes calling it an attack on creative freedom.

'Padmavati' row: Producers postpone film's release; protests intensify

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-producers-postpone-films-release-24582">&#39;Padmavati&#39; row: Producers postpone film&#39;s release</a></strong></p>

<p>Amid the raging protests over &quot;Padmavati&quot;, the film&#39;s co-producers Viacom18 Motion Pictures said Sunday that have postponed the release date of the Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed film.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-exclusive-india-deserved-moodys-upgrade-much-earlier-says-sanjay-baru-24568">WION exclusive: India deserved Moody&#39;s upgrade much earlier, says Sanjaya Baru</a></strong></p>

<p>In an exclusive interview with WION&#39;s Kartikeya Sharma, Sanjaya Baru, Secretary General, FICCI says that in 1990s, Prime Minister Narasimha Rao was blamed for the setback in the assembly elections as defeats were heaped on reforms. Even today there is a criticism of PM Narendra Modi on hurting the electoral prospects in Gujarat. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/top-cop-dismisses-is-claims-on-kashmir-encounter-24581">Top cop dismisses IS claims on Kashmir encounter</a></strong></p>

<p>Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police SP Vaid on Sunday denied that the Islamic State (IS) had a presence in the state.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ed-sheeran-in-bollywood-bash-hosted-by-farah-khan-24586">Ed Sheeran in Bollywood bash hosted by Farah Khan</a></strong></p>

<p>The wait of Ed Sheeran performing in Mumbai is finally over. The &quot;Shape of You&quot;&nbsp;singer is all set to perform today at Jio gardens in Mumbai tonight. Just a day before his concert, he was seen&nbsp;partying with many Bollywood celebs, hosted by Farah Khan.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/end-nears-for-mugabe-as-ruling-party-turns-against-him-24584"><strong>End nears for Mugabe as ruling party turns against him</strong></a></p>

<p>President Robert Mugabe faced the imminent collapse of his 37-year regime Sunday, with the once-loyal ZANU-PF party set to sack him as its leader and army generals piling pressure on him to resign.</p>


'Padmavati' row: Producers postpone film's release Amid the raging protests over "Padmavati", the film's co-producers Viacom18 Motion Pictures said Sunday that have postponed the release date of the Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed film. WION exclusive: India deserved Moody's upgrade much earlier, says Sanjaya Baru In an exclusive interview with WION's Kartikeya Sharma, Sanjaya Baru, Secretary General, FICCI says that in 1990s, Prime Minister Narasimha Rao was blamed for the setback in the assembly elections as defeats were heaped on reforms. Even today there is a criticism of PM Narendra Modi on hurting the electoral prospects in Gujarat. Top cop dismisses IS claims on Kashmir encounter Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police SP Vaid on Sunday denied that the Islamic State (IS) had a presence in the state. Ed Sheeran in Bollywood bash hosted by Farah Khan The wait of Ed Sheeran performing in Mumbai is finally over. The "Shape of You" singer is all set to perform today at Jio gardens in Mumbai tonight. Just a day before his concert, he was seen partying with many Bollywood celebs, hosted by Farah Khan. End nears for Mugabe as ruling party turns against him President Robert Mugabe faced the imminent collapse of his 37-year regime Sunday, with the once-loyal ZANU-PF party set to sack him as its leader and army generals piling pressure on him to resign.

WION evening news brief, November 19, 2017

<p>The Central Board of Film Certification has returned the movie &quot;Padmavati&quot; to its makers, saying the application is &quot;incomplete&quot;.</p>

<p>PTI reported the CBFC as saying the movie would be reviewed, and given a certificate, once it is sent back to the board.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;The film was submitted for certification last week. We examined the documents, as we normally do. It was conveyed to the makers that their application was incomplete. They had to rectify and send it back, we will view it when it comes back to us,&quot; PTI quoted a source in the CBFC as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;When they (makers) rectify the deficiency we will again scrutinise it once more and when the turn comes we will examine it (film for certification),&quot; the source added.</p>

<p>The source, however, refused to say what in the application was incomplete.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-deepika-padukone-on-padmavati-row-hurt-and-angry-but-i-know-no-wrong-will-be-done-24472" target="_blank">Deepika Padukone on Padmavati row: Hurt and angry but I know no wrong will be done</a></p>

<p>PTI reported Ajit Andhare, COO of Viacom 18 Motion Pictures -- which is releasing the picture -- as confirming the development.</p>

<p>&quot;That&#39;s true. But film is with the CBFC, it is merely a minor technical issue. Nothing stops them from seeing the film if they want,&quot; PTI quoted him as saying.</p>

<p>The Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed movie, slated for release on December 1, has led to a number of protests around the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rajput groups have been vociferously protesting against the film, most loudly against a possible dream sequence between Rani Padmavati of Chittor and Alauddin Khalji, the sultan of Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They say the movie distorts history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Historians, however, say Rani Padmavati or Padmini never existed, and that she was only a literary character.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khalji defeated the the Rana of Chittor in 1303. Historians say the first mention of Padmavati was in 1540 in a poem by Malik Muhammad Jayasi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Padmavati is slated for a December 1 release.&nbsp;</p>


Rajput groups have been vociferously protesting against the film, most loudly against a possible dream sequence between Rani Padmavati of Chittor and Alauddin Khalji, the sultan of Delhi

The Central Board of Film Certification has returned the movie "Padmavati" to its makers, saying the application is "incomplete". PTI reported the CBFC as saying the movie would be reviewed, and given a certificate, once it is sent back to the board. "The film was submitted for certification last week. We examined the documents, as we normally do. It was conveyed to the makers that their application was incomplete. They had to rectify and send it back, we will view it when it comes back to us," PTI quoted a source in the CBFC as saying. "When they (makers) rectify the deficiency we will again scrutinise it once more and when the turn comes we will examine it (film for certification)," the source added. The source, however, refused to say what in the application was incomplete. Also read: Deepika Padukone on Padmavati row: Hurt and angry but I know no wrong will be done PTI reported Ajit Andhare, COO of Viacom 18 Motion Pictures -- which is releasing the picture -- as confirming the development. "That's true. But film is with the CBFC, it is merely a minor technical issue. Nothing stops them from seeing the film if they want," PTI quoted him as saying. The Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed movie, slated for release on December 1, has led to a number of protests around the country. Rajput groups have been vociferously protesting against the film, most loudly against a possible dream sequence between Rani Padmavati of Chittor and Alauddin Khalji, the sultan of Delhi. They say the movie distorts history. Historians, however, say Rani Padmavati or Padmini never existed, and that she was only a literary character. Khalji defeated the the Rana of Chittor in 1303. Historians say the first mention of Padmavati was in 1540 in a poem by Malik Muhammad Jayasi. Padmavati is slated for a December 1 release.

CBFC returns 'Padmavati' to makers, says application 'incomplete'?

<p>The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-padmavati-row-all-that-has-happened-so-far-24378"><em>Padmavati</em>&nbsp;controversy</a> has gripped the nation. As various Rajput communities raise objection and issue threats to filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Deepika Padukone, the actress herself appears to be calm amid all the chaos.</p>

<p>In an interview with DNA&#39;s Meena Iyer, Padukone stated that despite the threats, she has full faith in the country&#39;s judicial system.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Padukone&#39;s security has been beefed up in the wake of the death threats she has received. When asked how affected she has been due to the controversy, the actress said, &quot;as a woman, as an artiste, as someone who has worked and given two years of my life to this movie, I feel hurt, I feel angry, but I also think it is extremely funny that people are reacting like this to a film. &nbsp;I am feeling so many emotions at this point.&rsquo;&rsquo;<br />
<br />
Despite the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-rajput-karni-sena-protests-outside-chittorgarh-fort-24434">protest</a>, Padukone is a firm believer that nothing will go wrong and that the film will reach the audience on December 1. &quot;There is a fraction out there who is doing what it is.I know no wrong will be done.&rsquo;&rsquo;</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbfc-returns-padmavati-to-makers-says-application-incomplete-24482" target="_blank">CBFC returns &#39;Padmavati&#39;, says application &#39;incomplete&#39;&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The actress who recently completed 10 years in the film industry states that <em>Padmavati </em>marks an evolution of Sanjay Leela Bhansali and her relationship as a director and an artiste. &quot;It takes a lot of trust and transparency, agreements and disagreements to reach a stage with your director, where we can both look into each other&rsquo;s eyes and we know what the other person is thinking or feeling without having to say anything.&quot;&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Incidentally, when Padukone made her debut in Farah Khan&#39;s <em>Om Shanti Om </em>in 2007, it clashed at the box office with Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s <em>Saawariya</em>. &quot;At that point, I never believed that I could be his heroine. I didn&rsquo;t think I was his type; whatever that type is. &nbsp;These were all thoughts/assumptions in my own head. Sanjay has never said anything of the sort to me. &nbsp;But I just had my own assumptions. &nbsp;Today we have completed three films&mdash;<em>Goliyon Ki Raas</em> <em>Leela Ram Leela</em> (2013), <em>Bajirao Mastani</em>(2015) and <em>Padmavati</em>(2017) together. &nbsp;I cannot tell you how grateful I am to Sanjay for giving me this film. To give me this film and to present me in the way that he has, &nbsp;`grateful&rsquo; is a very small word,&quot; said the actress.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Padukone recalled that the posters of <em>Padmavati</em> also evoked a lot of emotions in her. &quot; The posters are extraordinary. It is my own special moment as an actor. Whatever little that we are seeing is for me some of the most memorable moments of my life on a film set. &nbsp;In my opinion, Padmavati, especially in 3D will be an experience worth savouring. It is much more than just a film.&quot;<br />
<br />
Padukone also revealed that the film took away two years of her life and that she sacrificed on good roles and family life to be a part of Bhansali&#39;s project. But Padukone does not regret it. Instead, she said, it was all worth it. &quot; When I see the result it is all worth it. &nbsp;For me, it has never been about how films of mine will release in a year. &nbsp;Those films must be meaningful and they must impact.&quot;<br />
<br />
<em>Padmavati</em> also features Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor along with Padukone and is scheduled to release on December 1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read the full interview on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-dna-after-hours-exclusive-i-have-full-faith-in-our-judicial-system-says-deepika-padukone-on-padmavati-row-2560706">DNA here.&nbsp;</a><br />
&nbsp;</p>


In an exclusive interview to DNA, the actress explained that she had full faith the country's judicial system

The Padmavati controversy has gripped the nation. As various Rajput communities raise objection and issue threats to filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Deepika Padukone, the actress herself appears to be calm amid all the chaos. In an interview with DNA's Meena Iyer, Padukone stated that despite the threats, she has full faith in the country's judicial system. Padukone's security has been beefed up in the wake of the death threats she has received. When asked how affected she has been due to the controversy, the actress said, "as a woman, as an artiste, as someone who has worked and given two years of my life to this movie, I feel hurt, I feel angry, but I also think it is extremely funny that people are reacting like this to a film. I am feeling so many emotions at this point.’’ Despite the protest, Padukone is a firm believer that nothing will go wrong and that the film will reach the audience on December 1. "There is a fraction out there who is doing what it is.I know no wrong will be done.’’ Also read: CBFC returns 'Padmavati', says application 'incomplete' The actress who recently completed 10 years in the film industry states that Padmavati marks an evolution of Sanjay Leela Bhansali and her relationship as a director and an artiste. "It takes a lot of trust and transparency, agreements and disagreements to reach a stage with your director, where we can both look into each other’s eyes and we know what the other person is thinking or feeling without having to say anything." Incidentally, when Padukone made her debut in Farah Khan's Om Shanti Om in 2007, it clashed at the box office with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Saawariya. "At that point, I never believed that I could be his heroine. I didn’t think I was his type; whatever that type is. These were all thoughts/assumptions in my own head. Sanjay has never said anything of the sort to me. But I just had my own assumptions. Today we have completed three films—Goliyon Ki Raas Leela Ram Leela (2013), Bajirao Mastani(2015) and Padmavati(2017) together. I cannot tell you how grateful I am to Sanjay for giving me this film. To give me this film and to present me in the way that he has, `grateful’ is a very small word," said the actress. Padukone recalled that the posters of Padmavati also evoked a lot of emotions in her. " The posters are extraordinary. It is my own special moment as an actor. Whatever little that we are seeing is for me some of the most memorable moments of my life on a film set. In my opinion, Padmavati, especially in 3D will be an experience worth savouring. It is much more than just a film." Padukone also revealed that the film took away two years of her life and that she sacrificed on good roles and family life to be a part of Bhansali's project. But Padukone does not regret it. Instead, she said, it was all worth it. " When I see the result it is all worth it. For me, it has never been about how films of mine will release in a year. Those films must be meaningful and they must impact." Padmavati also features Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor along with Padukone and is scheduled to release on December 1. Read the full interview on DNA here.

Deepika Padukone on Padmavati row: Hurt and angry but I know no wrong will be done

<p>As the release of the movie <em>Padmavati </em>draws nearer, the protest against it has also mounted up.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In its wake, Uttar Pradesh`s Home Department has written to the secretary of the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, urging it to convey the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) of the adverse impact of the protests on peace and harmony.<br />
<br />
The letter also appeals for the certification board to take public sentiments into cognizance while granting a certificate to the movie.<br />
<br />
The movie`s December 1 release date also coincides with the counting of votes in the Uttar Pradesh local body elections, while the Islamic festival of Milad-un-Nabi is likely to fall on December 2, which is marked by large processions by the community.<br />
<br />
In light of both events, the ministry also suggested that the movie`s release around the same time would not be in the interests of peace and order.<br />
<br />
The period drama, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor, has been facing protests from various groups, including Shri Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering with historical facts.The Karni Sena had earlier demolished the sets of the movie in Jaipur and also thrashed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali.<br />
<br />
The Karni Sena activists have amped up the act by staging protests in various parts of the country, covering Bangalore in the South as well. The protests have turned even more violent, as acts of vandalism in Rajasthan`s Kota were reported on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, The Rajasthan Police on Thursday said that the people protesting against Sanjay Leela Bhansali`s movie <em>Padmavati</em>&nbsp;should not take law and order into their hands.&quot;The protesters can stage demonstrations peacefully and can keep their demands in front but that all should be under law and order. We will take proper action if any situation violating law and order arises. Presently, the situation is under control. We will make a strategy if needed and are ready for any upcoming situation,&quot; Rajasthan Director General of Police (DGP) Ajit Singh told ANI.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, Rajput Karni Sena chief Lokendra Singh Kalvi warned of dire consequences if the release of <em>Padmavati</em>&nbsp;was not stalled.Speaking to ANI, Kalvi said, &quot;<em>Jauhar ki </em><em>jwala</em><em> hai, </em><em>bahut</em><em> </em><em>kuch</em><em> </em><em>jalega</em><em>. Rok </em><em>sako</em><em> to rok lo </em>(a lot will burn, stop if you can).&quot;<br />
<br />
Earlier, the Supreme Court had rejected a petition filed against the release of <em>Padmavati</em>, saying the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) was yet to issue a certificate to the movie.<br />
<br />
The top court had added that the CBFC was an independent body and the court should not intervene in their jurisdiction.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The makers have repeatedly mentioned that the film does not&nbsp;hurt&nbsp;religious sentiments nor&nbsp;does it tamper with history. They have offered to screen the film to the Rajput outfit as soon as they get a Censor certificate. Members of the Censor board are likely to watch the film today.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The period drama, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor, has been facing protests from various groups, including Shri Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering with historical facts

As the release of the movie Padmavati draws nearer, the protest against it has also mounted up. In its wake, Uttar Pradesh`s Home Department has written to the secretary of the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, urging it to convey the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) of the adverse impact of the protests on peace and harmony. The letter also appeals for the certification board to take public sentiments into cognizance while granting a certificate to the movie. The movie`s December 1 release date also coincides with the counting of votes in the Uttar Pradesh local body elections, while the Islamic festival of Milad-un-Nabi is likely to fall on December 2, which is marked by large processions by the community. In light of both events, the ministry also suggested that the movie`s release around the same time would not be in the interests of peace and order. The period drama, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor, has been facing protests from various groups, including Shri Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering with historical facts.The Karni Sena had earlier demolished the sets of the movie in Jaipur and also thrashed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The Karni Sena activists have amped up the act by staging protests in various parts of the country, covering Bangalore in the South as well. The protests have turned even more violent, as acts of vandalism in Rajasthan`s Kota were reported on Tuesday. Meanwhile, The Rajasthan Police on Thursday said that the people protesting against Sanjay Leela Bhansali`s movie Padmavati should not take law and order into their hands."The protesters can stage demonstrations peacefully and can keep their demands in front but that all should be under law and order. We will take proper action if any situation violating law and order arises. Presently, the situation is under control. We will make a strategy if needed and are ready for any upcoming situation," Rajasthan Director General of Police (DGP) Ajit Singh told ANI. Yesterday, Rajput Karni Sena chief Lokendra Singh Kalvi warned of dire consequences if the release of Padmavati was not stalled.Speaking to ANI, Kalvi said, "Jauhar ki jwala hai, bahut kuch jalega. Rok sako to rok lo (a lot will burn, stop if you can)." Earlier, the Supreme Court had rejected a petition filed against the release of Padmavati, saying the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) was yet to issue a certificate to the movie. The top court had added that the CBFC was an independent body and the court should not intervene in their jurisdiction. The makers have repeatedly mentioned that the film does not hurt religious sentiments nor does it tamper with history. They have offered to screen the film to the Rajput outfit as soon as they get a Censor certificate. Members of the Censor board are likely to watch the film today.

Padmavati: UP home department urges CBFC to consider 'people's sentiments'

<p>The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has said it would take a stand on the controversial film <em>Padmavati</em>&nbsp;only after watching it.<br />
<br />
The Sanjay Leela Bhansali movie featuring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh in lead roles is being opposed by certain organisations.<br />
<br />
Amey Khopkar, the president of MNS Chitrapat Sena, the film wing of the Raj Thackeray-led party, yesterday issued a video to clarify the outfit&#39;s stand on the movie, scheduled to release on December 1.&nbsp;&quot;We are of the opinion of not opposing the movie without watching it. We are not going to do it that way. I am aware of some social organisations and political parties opposing the film but we would like to first see it,&quot; it said.<br />
<br />
&quot;If we find some part objectionable, we can hold a meeting with the director (Bhansali),&quot; the party said in the video.&nbsp;Meanwhile, BJP MLA from Mumbai, Ram Kadam, said the film&#39;s trailer had &quot;hurt&quot; the sentiments of a section of people.<br />
<br />
Addressing a press conference here yesterday, he said, &quot;Nobody has the right to play with history. The trailer has hurt the sentiments of some people and Bhansali will have to respect their feelings.&quot;&nbsp;The MLA from Ghatkopar (West) Assembly segment said he was the chairman of the Film Studios Setting and Allied Mazdoor Sangh, which will not work with Bhansali in his next venture as a mark of protest.<br />
<br />
&quot;If Bhansali cannot respect people&#39;s sentiments, then he will not be able to shoot for his next film here. My union is very strong and we will not cooperate with him,&quot; the legislator MLA warned.&nbsp;The Rajasthan-based Shri Rajput Karni Sena is spearheading protests against the film, alleging that it &quot;distorts&quot; historical facts.</p>


The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has said it would take a stand on the controversial film Padmavati?only after watching it.

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has said it would take a stand on the controversial film Padmavati only after watching it. The Sanjay Leela Bhansali movie featuring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh in lead roles is being opposed by certain organisations. Amey Khopkar, the president of MNS Chitrapat Sena, the film wing of the Raj Thackeray-led party, yesterday issued a video to clarify the outfit's stand on the movie, scheduled to release on December 1. "We are of the opinion of not opposing the movie without watching it. We are not going to do it that way. I am aware of some social organisations and political parties opposing the film but we would like to first see it," it said. "If we find some part objectionable, we can hold a meeting with the director (Bhansali)," the party said in the video. Meanwhile, BJP MLA from Mumbai, Ram Kadam, said the film's trailer had "hurt" the sentiments of a section of people. Addressing a press conference here yesterday, he said, "Nobody has the right to play with history. The trailer has hurt the sentiments of some people and Bhansali will have to respect their feelings." The MLA from Ghatkopar (West) Assembly segment said he was the chairman of the Film Studios Setting and Allied Mazdoor Sangh, which will not work with Bhansali in his next venture as a mark of protest. "If Bhansali cannot respect people's sentiments, then he will not be able to shoot for his next film here. My union is very strong and we will not cooperate with him," the legislator MLA warned. The Rajasthan-based Shri Rajput Karni Sena is spearheading protests against the film, alleging that it "distorts" historical facts.

Will take stand on 'Padmavati' after watching it: MNS

<p>Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone has reportedly been given special security by the Mumbai Police after the Rajput Karni Sena threatened to chop off her nose if &quot;Padmavati&quot;&nbsp;is released on December 1.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Mahipal Singh Makrana of Rajput Karni Sena has made a video in which he states that &quot;Rajputs do not raise their hand on women but if need be, we will do to Deepika what Lakshman did to Shurpanakha,&quot; ANI quoted him as saying. (Also Read -&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-rani-padmavati-exist-24076">Padmavati row: Much ado over a piece of fiction?</a>)</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rajputs never raise a hand on women but if need be, we will do to Deepika what Lakshman did to Shurpanakha: Mahipal Singh Makrana of Rajput Karni Sena in a self-made video <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmavati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmavati</a> <a href="https://t.co/82AWKGO7IU">pic.twitter.com/82AWKGO7IU</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/931060785303785473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>A few days earlier, Deepika Padukone had expressed disappointment over the controversy around the film and stated that the country was becoming regressive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-padmavati-row-up-home-deptt-writes-to-cbfc-urging-it-to-consider-peoples-sentiments-while-giving-certificate-to-the-film-24347" target="_blank">Padmavati: UP home department urges CBFC to consider &#39;people&#39;s sentiments&#39;</a><br />
<br />
Criticising her comment, Karni Sena chief Lokendra Singh Kalvi said, &quot;The country is not regressing, you are making it so. I beg Deepika not to insult women... Deepika is seen dancing with fewer clothes in the film. How are you trying to portray the Indian women?&quot;<br />
<br />
&quot;Deepika is like a daughter. She should exercise restraint,&quot; he added. Kalvi also alleged that Padmavati was financed by the &quot;underworld&quot;.</p>


'Rajputs do not raise their hand on women but if need be, we will do to Deepika what Lakshman did to Shurpanakha,' Mahipal Singh Makrana of the Karni Sena said in a self-made video

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone has reportedly been given special security by the Mumbai Police after the Rajput Karni Sena threatened to chop off her nose if "Padmavati" is released on December 1. Mahipal Singh Makrana of Rajput Karni Sena has made a video in which he states that "Rajputs do not raise their hand on women but if need be, we will do to Deepika what Lakshman did to Shurpanakha," ANI quoted him as saying. (Also Read - Padmavati row: Much ado over a piece of fiction?) Rajputs never raise a hand on women but if need be, we will do to Deepika what Lakshman did to Shurpanakha: Mahipal Singh Makrana of Rajput Karni Sena in a self-made video #Padmavati pic.twitter.com/82AWKGO7IU — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2017 × A few days earlier, Deepika Padukone had expressed disappointment over the controversy around the film and stated that the country was becoming regressive. Padmavati: UP home department urges CBFC to consider 'people's sentiments' Criticising her comment, Karni Sena chief Lokendra Singh Kalvi said, "The country is not regressing, you are making it so. I beg Deepika not to insult women... Deepika is seen dancing with fewer clothes in the film. How are you trying to portray the Indian women?" "Deepika is like a daughter. She should exercise restraint," he added. Kalvi also alleged that Padmavati was financed by the "underworld".

Padmavati row: Deepika given security after Karni Sena threatens to chop off her nose

<p>Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-padmavati-row-up-home-deptt-writes-to-cbfc-urging-it-to-consider-peoples-sentiments-while-giving-certificate-to-the-film-24347">magnum opus Padmavati</a> has been facing the heat of Rajput groups ever since the director started filming in Jaipur. The film which features Deepika Padukone in the title role has Shahid Kapoor playing her husband,&nbsp;Rajput king Ratan Singh and Ranveer Singh playing Delhi ruler Alauddin Khilji.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The film&#39;s story is based on a fictional tale which had Ratan Singh going to war with Alauddin Khilji to protect his wife Queen Padmavati&#39;s honour. Known for her exceptional beauty, Padmavati was desired by Khilji who wanted to win her over by defeating her husband. Ratan&nbsp;Singh eventually did get killed in the war and Queen Padmavati performed Jauhar (self-immolation) along with thousands of other women of her kingdom in order to protect her honour.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
In January this year, members of the Rajput outfit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-padmavati-row-now-karni-sena-threatens-to-chop-off-deepika-padukones-nose-if-the-film-releases-24367">Karni Sena</a> vandalised the sets of Padmavati and even assaulted Sanjay Leela Bhansali as the crew was shooting at Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur. They rasied objection to an alleged dream sequence in the film featuring Padmavati and Alauddin Khilji.<br />
<br />
Several meetings were held between officials of Bhansali productions and the representatives of Karni Sena following the incident where the makers assured that the film did not have any such dream sequence neither did it tamper with history.<br />
<br />
The sets were torched in Kolhapur in March later this year. While no one was hurt, losses worth crores were incurred.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
After the trailer of the film came out, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/watch-karni-sena-vandalises-rajasthan-theatre-showing-padmavati-trailer-6704">protests broke out</a> as the Karni Sena alleged that the film was tampering with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-talks-to-prince-of-mewar-dynasty-lakshyaraj-singh-mewar-on-padmavati-row-6765">Rajput history</a>.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Ram Kadam warned that if Padmavati director Sanjay Leela Bhansali did not remove &ldquo;objectionable scenes&rdquo; from the film, he would not be allowed to shoot any movie in the future.&nbsp;While Bhansali came on record to state that film honoured the valor of the Rajput Queen and in no way distorted facts, Karni Sena has been adamant in stopping the film&#39;s release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday, the Karni Sena threatened to chop off Deepika Padukone&#39;s nose if the film is released on December 1. Another group in Meerut has offered a bounty of Rs 5 crore to anyone who cops off Bhansali&#39;s head.<br />
<br />
Bhansali, though, has got a lot of support from the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-film-associations-back-padmvati-question-governments-silence-on-the-matter-24169">film fraternity</a> ever since the controversy broke out. From Anurag Kashyap to Salman Khan to various film bodies- all have appealed to the government to step in and let the film get a smooth release.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Due to increasing threats, security has been stepped up for Deepika Padukone and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who is reportedly going to screen the film to CBFC on Thursday.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, certain BJP leaders had appealed to the Chief Election Commissioner demanding the stalling of &#39;Padmavati&#39; release ahead of Gujarat elections. &nbsp;The Supreme Court a week back had refused to entertain a plea seeking a stay on the release of the film till CBFC had considered all options and given a certificate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday, the UP government urged the CBFC to take into account the sentiments of the people before certifying the film. The letter stated that the film&#39;s release could disrupt the peace and harmony of the state as several theaters in Noida were threatened by Karni Sena of vandalism if they agreed to screen the film in their respective theaters.&nbsp;</p>


A round-up of all that has happened around the film

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus Padmavati has been facing the heat of Rajput groups ever since the director started filming in Jaipur. The film which features Deepika Padukone in the title role has Shahid Kapoor playing her husband, Rajput king Ratan Singh and Ranveer Singh playing Delhi ruler Alauddin Khilji. The film's story is based on a fictional tale which had Ratan Singh going to war with Alauddin Khilji to protect his wife Queen Padmavati's honour. Known for her exceptional beauty, Padmavati was desired by Khilji who wanted to win her over by defeating her husband. Ratan Singh eventually did get killed in the war and Queen Padmavati performed Jauhar (self-immolation) along with thousands of other women of her kingdom in order to protect her honour. In January this year, members of the Rajput outfit Karni Sena vandalised the sets of Padmavati and even assaulted Sanjay Leela Bhansali as the crew was shooting at Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur. They rasied objection to an alleged dream sequence in the film featuring Padmavati and Alauddin Khilji. Several meetings were held between officials of Bhansali productions and the representatives of Karni Sena following the incident where the makers assured that the film did not have any such dream sequence neither did it tamper with history. The sets were torched in Kolhapur in March later this year. While no one was hurt, losses worth crores were incurred. After the trailer of the film came out, protests broke out as the Karni Sena alleged that the film was tampering with Rajput history. Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Ram Kadam warned that if Padmavati director Sanjay Leela Bhansali did not remove “objectionable scenes” from the film, he would not be allowed to shoot any movie in the future. While Bhansali came on record to state that film honoured the valor of the Rajput Queen and in no way distorted facts, Karni Sena has been adamant in stopping the film's release. On Thursday, the Karni Sena threatened to chop off Deepika Padukone's nose if the film is released on December 1. Another group in Meerut has offered a bounty of Rs 5 crore to anyone who cops off Bhansali's head. Bhansali, though, has got a lot of support from the film fraternity ever since the controversy broke out. From Anurag Kashyap to Salman Khan to various film bodies- all have appealed to the government to step in and let the film get a smooth release. Due to increasing threats, security has been stepped up for Deepika Padukone and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who is reportedly going to screen the film to CBFC on Thursday. Meanwhile, certain BJP leaders had appealed to the Chief Election Commissioner demanding the stalling of 'Padmavati' release ahead of Gujarat elections. The Supreme Court a week back had refused to entertain a plea seeking a stay on the release of the film till CBFC had considered all options and given a certificate. On Thursday, the UP government urged the CBFC to take into account the sentiments of the people before certifying the film. The letter stated that the film's release could disrupt the peace and harmony of the state as several theaters in Noida were threatened by Karni Sena of vandalism if they agreed to screen the film in their respective theaters.

Padmavati row: All that has happened so far

<p>Central Board of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-padmavati-row-sanjay-leela-bhansali-gets-security-cover-rajput-karni-sena-calls-for-a-bharat-bandh-24319">Film Certification (CBFC) chairperson, Prasoon Joshi </a>on Wednesday said that he has not watched the yet to be released movie, &quot;Padmavati&quot;.</p>

<p>Rebutting the reports of him having reviewed the movie at a special screening, Joshi said, &quot;The speculative reports a few publications are carrying about I having watched Padmavati are absolutely baseless and untrue.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;Neither I have watched the film nor expressed any views regarding it. The film will follow the due process at CBFC,&quot; he added.</p>

<p>Some media reports had earlier claimed that Joshi saw Padmavati and gave its content a clean chit.</p>

<p>Reportedly, Joshi said the movie will &quot;sail through without cuts.&quot;</p>

<p>The period drama, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor, has been facing protests from various groups, including Shri Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering with historical facts.</p>

<p>However, the makers have repeatedly maintained that the movie is devoid of scenes that may hurt anyone&#39;s sentiments.</p>

<p>Joshi, last week, had also rejected one of its advisory panel members&#39; statement against &#39;Padmavati&#39; director Sanjay Leela Bhansali that the filmmaker should be tried for treason.</p>

<p>&quot;It&#39;s unfortunate to see the personal point of view expressed by an advisory panel member of the CBFC against Mr Sanjay Leela Bhansali. By no means does it represent the point of view of CBFC as an organisation or the CBFC board. We have respect for Mr Bhansali as an individual and artist,&quot; Joshi had told ANI.</p>

<p>Padmavati is due for release on December 1.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Padmavati is due for release on December 1.

Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairperson, Prasoon Joshi on Wednesday said that he has not watched the yet to be released movie, "Padmavati". Rebutting the reports of him having reviewed the movie at a special screening, Joshi said, "The speculative reports a few publications are carrying about I having watched Padmavati are absolutely baseless and untrue." "Neither I have watched the film nor expressed any views regarding it. The film will follow the due process at CBFC," he added. Some media reports had earlier claimed that Joshi saw Padmavati and gave its content a clean chit. Reportedly, Joshi said the movie will "sail through without cuts." The period drama, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor, has been facing protests from various groups, including Shri Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering with historical facts. However, the makers have repeatedly maintained that the movie is devoid of scenes that may hurt anyone's sentiments. Joshi, last week, had also rejected one of its advisory panel members' statement against 'Padmavati' director Sanjay Leela Bhansali that the filmmaker should be tried for treason. "It's unfortunate to see the personal point of view expressed by an advisory panel member of the CBFC against Mr Sanjay Leela Bhansali. By no means does it represent the point of view of CBFC as an organisation or the CBFC board. We have respect for Mr Bhansali as an individual and artist," Joshi had told ANI. Padmavati is due for release on December 1.

I haven't expressed any views on 'Padmavati': Prasoon Joshi

<p>There seems to be no respite for <em>Padmavati</em>. On Wednesday, Shri Rajput Karni Sena called for a <em>Bandh</em>&nbsp;December 1 - the day Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s film is scheduled to release. Meanwhile, the filmmaker has been provided with an extra security cover by the Maharashtra government in view of the growing threats around the film and the director.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;We will hold rallies across the country, including Gurugram, Patna, Lucknow and Bhopal before the release date,&quot; Lokendra Singh Kalvi, founder-patron of the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, an organization of the Rajput community, told media persons in Jaipur. Kalvi claims that all communities, including Muslims, support the group.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;We demand a complete ban on the film. Now, we don&#39;t want any pre-screening of the movie. All we want is a ban,&quot; an agency quoted him as saying. Kalvi also demanded PM Modi&#39;s intervention in the matter.<br />
<br />
Ever since Bhansali started filming <em>Padmavati</em>, he has been facing severe criticism from the Rajput outfit. The filmmaker was attacked and his set was vandalized on two occasions.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The outfit has stated that the film distorts Rajput history and has raised an objection on the alleged dream scene between Alauddin Khilji and Rani Padmavati. The makers have repeatedly stated that the film does not have the alleged dream sequence and Bhansali has even come on record and stated that the film honours the spirit of Rajput women.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Ever since Bhansali started filming Padmavati, he has been facing severe criticism from the Rajput outfit

There seems to be no respite for Padmavati. On Wednesday, Shri Rajput Karni Sena called for a Bandh December 1 - the day Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film is scheduled to release. Meanwhile, the filmmaker has been provided with an extra security cover by the Maharashtra government in view of the growing threats around the film and the director. "We will hold rallies across the country, including Gurugram, Patna, Lucknow and Bhopal before the release date," Lokendra Singh Kalvi, founder-patron of the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, an organization of the Rajput community, told media persons in Jaipur. Kalvi claims that all communities, including Muslims, support the group. "We demand a complete ban on the film. Now, we don't want any pre-screening of the movie. All we want is a ban," an agency quoted him as saying. Kalvi also demanded PM Modi's intervention in the matter. Ever since Bhansali started filming Padmavati, he has been facing severe criticism from the Rajput outfit. The filmmaker was attacked and his set was vandalized on two occasions. The outfit has stated that the film distorts Rajput history and has raised an objection on the alleged dream scene between Alauddin Khilji and Rani Padmavati. The makers have repeatedly stated that the film does not have the alleged dream sequence and Bhansali has even come on record and stated that the film honours the spirit of Rajput women.

Padmavati row: Sanjay Leela Bhansali given security, Karni Sena calls for Bharat Bandh

<p>Several film bodies on Monday&nbsp;came out in support of director Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s <em>Padmavati</em>&nbsp;and questioned the government&#39;s silence on threats by Rajput groups against the release of the film.<br />
<br />
The Indian Film and Television Directors&#39; Association (IFTDA) along with Cine and TV Artists Association (CINTAA), Western India Cinematographers Association (WICA), Screenwriters Association (SWA), Association of Cine and Television Art Directors and Costume Designers (ACTADCD), backed Bhansali at a press conference here.<br />
<br />
Filmmaker Sudhir Mishra, who was present there, said an attack on Bhansali was an assault on creative freedom.<br />
<br />
&quot;Attack on Bhansali is an attack on freedom. This is very stifling. When it comes to the interpretation of history, you can disagree with him, but at least allow the film to release. By asking for a ban, you are creating an atmosphere where nobody will attempt films on Indian history,&quot; Mishra said.<br />
<br />
Bhansali has been facing trouble since he started shooting for the movie. The set of the movie was vandalised twice -- in Jaipur and Kolhapur -- and the director was roughed up by members of Karni Sena during the Jaipur schedule of the film earlier this year.<br />
<br />
Rajput groups and some BJP members have accused Bhansali of distorting facts in the movie, starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh. The film is scheduled to be released on December 1.<br />
<br />
At the press conference, actor Sushant Singh, general secretary of CINTAA, said the government should intervene at this point.&nbsp;&quot;Sanjay Leela Bhansali didn&#39;t ask us to hold this conference... We all are frustrated, angry and upset. For how long will our fraternity members keep asking for freedom of expression to make films? Why do we need to fight for such a basic right all the time?&quot; Singh asked.<br />
<br />
&quot;My question is for the state and the Central government- why are you silent? People from your parties are openly threatening to burn theatres. I have the right to ask for an assurance from the government,&quot; he added.<br />
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, convenor of IFTDA, said the industry has been pushed to a point where they feel abused.<br />
<br />
&quot;We are hurt because we have been abused and accused. We are filmmakers, creative people and we don&#39;t deserve this kind of treatment. Every now and then we see our makers being heckled. We work hard, we make films. Bhansali is a symbol and attack on him is like abusing the film fraternity,&quot; he said.<br />
<br />
Pandit said on November 16 there will be a silent protest outside the Film City gates here to support Bhansali. &quot;The entire film fraternity will come out at 11 AM. No shoot will be done from 4-4:15 PM as a symbolic support to Bhansali,&quot; Pandit added.<br />
<br />
He also said that the bodies will write letters to I&amp;B minister Smriti Irani tomorrow and Union home minister Rajnath Singh.<br />
<br />
Veteran actor and CINTAA President Vikram Gokhale, who worked with Bhansali in <em>Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam</em>, said the filmmaker is a responsible man and his vision should be trusted.<br />
<br />
&quot;I am against private censorship. I have worked with Bhansali, he is a responsible man. Even if he has made a mistake, you have a pen and media platforms to express your opinion. But vandalising sets, indulging in physical violence is extremely foolish,&quot; Gokhale said.<br />
<br />
Bhansali has already issued an appeal to clarify that there is no dream sequence between Deepika&#39;s Padmavati and Ranveer&#39;s Khilji as claimed by Rajput groups.&nbsp;</p>


Rajput groups and some BJP members have accused Bhansali of distorting facts in the movie, starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh.

Several film bodies on Monday came out in support of director Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmavati and questioned the government's silence on threats by Rajput groups against the release of the film. The Indian Film and Television Directors' Association (IFTDA) along with Cine and TV Artists Association (CINTAA), Western India Cinematographers Association (WICA), Screenwriters Association (SWA), Association of Cine and Television Art Directors and Costume Designers (ACTADCD), backed Bhansali at a press conference here. Filmmaker Sudhir Mishra, who was present there, said an attack on Bhansali was an assault on creative freedom. "Attack on Bhansali is an attack on freedom. This is very stifling. When it comes to the interpretation of history, you can disagree with him, but at least allow the film to release. By asking for a ban, you are creating an atmosphere where nobody will attempt films on Indian history," Mishra said. Bhansali has been facing trouble since he started shooting for the movie. The set of the movie was vandalised twice -- in Jaipur and Kolhapur -- and the director was roughed up by members of Karni Sena during the Jaipur schedule of the film earlier this year. Rajput groups and some BJP members have accused Bhansali of distorting facts in the movie, starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh. The film is scheduled to be released on December 1. At the press conference, actor Sushant Singh, general secretary of CINTAA, said the government should intervene at this point. "Sanjay Leela Bhansali didn't ask us to hold this conference... We all are frustrated, angry and upset. For how long will our fraternity members keep asking for freedom of expression to make films? Why do we need to fight for such a basic right all the time?" Singh asked. "My question is for the state and the Central government- why are you silent? People from your parties are openly threatening to burn theatres. I have the right to ask for an assurance from the government," he added. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, convenor of IFTDA, said the industry has been pushed to a point where they feel abused. "We are hurt because we have been abused and accused. We are filmmakers, creative people and we don't deserve this kind of treatment. Every now and then we see our makers being heckled. We work hard, we make films. Bhansali is a symbol and attack on him is like abusing the film fraternity," he said. Pandit said on November 16 there will be a silent protest outside the Film City gates here to support Bhansali. "The entire film fraternity will come out at 11 AM. No shoot will be done from 4-4:15 PM as a symbolic support to Bhansali," Pandit added. He also said that the bodies will write letters to I&B minister Smriti Irani tomorrow and Union home minister Rajnath Singh. Veteran actor and CINTAA President Vikram Gokhale, who worked with Bhansali in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, said the filmmaker is a responsible man and his vision should be trusted. "I am against private censorship. I have worked with Bhansali, he is a responsible man. Even if he has made a mistake, you have a pen and media platforms to express your opinion. But vandalising sets, indulging in physical violence is extremely foolish," Gokhale said. Bhansali has already issued an appeal to clarify that there is no dream sequence between Deepika's Padmavati and Ranveer's Khilji as claimed by Rajput groups.

Film Associations back Padmavati, question government's silence on the matter

<p>Makers of Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s <em>Padmavati</em>&nbsp;on Monday&nbsp;said they were ready to screen the film for those who had doubts about its content once the film was passed by the censor board.<br />
<br />
Ajit Andhare, Chief Operating Officer, Viacom18 Motion Pictures, said the claims that film was a distortion of history were not true and they were open to screening the film after it was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).<br />
<br />
&quot;We are first looking at the Censor Board (for clearance) and then we don&#39;t have a problem (to show the film) because they are imagining something different and we would like to quell all these doubts first. But ideally we want to get the certificate first,&quot; Andhare told PTI.<br />
<br />
He said the filmmakers had received some representations.<br />
<br />
&quot;We do not have a problem (in screening the film) please realise this is unprecedented, this is not how it is supposed to be done. What they (certain sections of people) are saying is not in the film, we do not have anything to hide,&quot; he added.<br />
<br />
He said they did not want the film to get stuck in any further controversy and were waiting to hear from the CBFC.<br />
<br />
&quot;We are going to this length as we want to quell the controversy; it is a needless controversy. The film doesn&#39;t need it. The film has its own merit and we just want that the censor board gives us a screening date so that we can take it ahead. The ball is in the censor&#39;s court,&quot; he said.<br />
<br />
The film was submitted to the CBFC last week.&nbsp;&quot;Bhansali Production applied online last Friday. We are waiting to hear from the board for the screening. That is our first priority. &quot;I am not foreseeing any problem. No film in the history of censor board has got delayed, I have no reason to believe the film will be delayed. We have nothing to worry (about),&quot; he said.<br />
<br />
<em>Padmavati</em>&nbsp;is scheduled to be released on December 1.&nbsp;</p>


Ajit Andhare, Chief Operating Officer, Viacom18 Motion Pictures, said the claims that film was a distortion of history were not true

Makers of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmavati on Monday said they were ready to screen the film for those who had doubts about its content once the film was passed by the censor board. Ajit Andhare, Chief Operating Officer, Viacom18 Motion Pictures, said the claims that film was a distortion of history were not true and they were open to screening the film after it was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). "We are first looking at the Censor Board (for clearance) and then we don't have a problem (to show the film) because they are imagining something different and we would like to quell all these doubts first. But ideally we want to get the certificate first," Andhare told PTI. He said the filmmakers had received some representations. "We do not have a problem (in screening the film) please realise this is unprecedented, this is not how it is supposed to be done. What they (certain sections of people) are saying is not in the film, we do not have anything to hide," he added. He said they did not want the film to get stuck in any further controversy and were waiting to hear from the CBFC. "We are going to this length as we want to quell the controversy; it is a needless controversy. The film doesn't need it. The film has its own merit and we just want that the censor board gives us a screening date so that we can take it ahead. The ball is in the censor's court," he said. The film was submitted to the CBFC last week. "Bhansali Production applied online last Friday. We are waiting to hear from the board for the screening. That is our first priority. "I am not foreseeing any problem. No film in the history of censor board has got delayed, I have no reason to believe the film will be delayed. We have nothing to worry (about)," he said. Padmavati is scheduled to be released on December 1.

Padmavati makers open to screen the film to quell the doubts

<p>Superstar Salman Khan on Monday came out in support of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s magnum opus <em>Padmavati</em>, saying that the film should not be judged before it is seen.<br />
<br />
The 51-year-old actor, who has collaborated with Bhansali on films such as <em>Khamoshi</em>, <em>Hum Dil Chuke Sanam</em>&nbsp;and <em>Saawariya</em>, said Bhansali was a great filmmaker.<br />
<br />
&quot;No decision should be made without seeing the film <em>Padmavati</em>. Sanjay Leela Bhansali makes lovely films and there is nothing wrong with his movies,&quot; Salman told Network 18.<br />
<br />
The actor added that only the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has the power to decide if the film is suitable for release.<br />
<br />
Several film bodies including, Indian Film and Television Directors&#39; Association (IFTDA) along with Cine and TV Artists Association (CINTAA), Western India Cinematographers Association (WICA), Screenwriters Association (SWA), Association of Cine and Television Art Directors and Costume Designers (ACTADCD), also came out in support of the director today and questioned the government&#39;s silence on threats by Rajput groups against the release of the film.</p>

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<p>Bhansali has been facing trouble since he started shooting for the movie. The set of the movie was vandalised twice -- in Jaipur and Kolhapur -- and the director was roughed up by members of Karni Sena during the Jaipur schedule of the film earlier this year.<br />
<br />
Rajput groups and some BJP members have accused Bhansali of distorting facts in the movie, starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh. The film is scheduled to be released on December 1.<br />
<br />
Bhansali has already issued an appeal to clarify that there is no dream sequence between Deepika&#39;s Padmavati and Ranveer&#39;s Khilji as claimed by Rajput groups.&nbsp;</p>


The 51-year-old actor, who has collaborated with Bhansali on films such as Khamoshi, Hum Dil Chuke Sanam and Saawariya, said Bhansali was a great filmmaker.

Superstar Salman Khan on Monday came out in support of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus Padmavati, saying that the film should not be judged before it is seen. The 51-year-old actor, who has collaborated with Bhansali on films such as Khamoshi, Hum Dil Chuke Sanam and Saawariya, said Bhansali was a great filmmaker. "No decision should be made without seeing the film Padmavati. Sanjay Leela Bhansali makes lovely films and there is nothing wrong with his movies," Salman told Network 18. The actor added that only the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has the power to decide if the film is suitable for release. Several film bodies including, Indian Film and Television Directors' Association (IFTDA) along with Cine and TV Artists Association (CINTAA), Western India Cinematographers Association (WICA), Screenwriters Association (SWA), Association of Cine and Television Art Directors and Costume Designers (ACTADCD), also came out in support of the director today and questioned the government's silence on threats by Rajput groups against the release of the film. Padmavati (WION) × Bhansali has been facing trouble since he started shooting for the movie. The set of the movie was vandalised twice -- in Jaipur and Kolhapur -- and the director was roughed up by members of Karni Sena during the Jaipur schedule of the film earlier this year. Rajput groups and some BJP members have accused Bhansali of distorting facts in the movie, starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh. The film is scheduled to be released on December 1. Bhansali has already issued an appeal to clarify that there is no dream sequence between Deepika's Padmavati and Ranveer's Khilji as claimed by Rajput groups.

Salman Khan backs Padmavati,says nothing wrong with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's films

<p>It is a question that the protestors who want the film &quot;Padmavati&quot; to be banned must first ask themselves before they take extreme steps, such as vandalising the film&#39;s sets in Jaipur or suggesting that the acclaimed director is tried for distorting history on grounds of treason.</p>

<p>The question is can somebody be tried for treason because he took inspiration from a work of fiction.</p>

<p>The Sanjay Leela Bhansali film is reportedly based on the 1540 fictional piece &quot;Padmavat&quot; by the famous poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi. The poem is a tribute to the valour of Rani Padmini, wife of the Rajput ruler of Mewar, Ratan Singh. In 1303, Alauddin Khilji, a king of the Delhi Sultanate, laid siege of the fort of Chittor.</p>

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<h5>The poem Padmavat states that Alauddin Khilji started the campaign to conquer Chittor motivated by his desire to capture Rani Padmini who committed Jauhar (self-immolation) along with other women to save their honour.</h5>
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<p>The Padmavat states that Alauddin Khilji started the campaign to conquer Chittor motivated by his desire to capture Rani Padmini who committed Jauhar (self-immolation) along with other women to save their honour.</p>

<p>Interestingly, the accounts prior to the &quot;Padmavat&quot; that describe Alauddin Khilji&#39;s Chittorgarh conquest make no mention of the queen.</p>

<p>Historian Amir Khusrau, who accompanied Alauddin Khilji during the important historical event, and records it in &quot;Khaza&#39;in ul-Futuh&quot; makes no mention of Rani Padmini. Later accounts of Rani Padmini are all adaptations of the &quot;Padmavat&quot;. Most modern historians have rejected the authenticity of the legend around Rani Padmini.</p>

<p>Rajput community leaders, several members of the BJP in the state and various right-wing organisations, including the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, the Sarv Brahmin Mahasabha and the Bajrang Dal have asked for a ban on the film, alleging that the filmmaker has distorted historical facts regarding Rani Padmini.</p>

<p>Their objections are to an alleged dream sequence between Rani Padmavati and Alauddin Khilji which the film&#39;s director has repeatedly denied.</p>

<p>The Supreme Court has refused to stay the release of the film and said that the Central Board of Film Certification or the censor board follows guidelines and considers all aspects before granting a certificate to any film.</p>

<p>The filmmaker is yet to take the approval of the censor board, a process which routinely takes 21 days.</p>

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<h5>A legislator of a political party has problems with the fact that a Rajput queen is dancing in front of everyone which he says is completely against Rajput culture and pride.</h5>
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<p>The Rajasthan government&#39;s suggestion is to set up a committee to examine the facts. Even if historians are invited to be committee members as suggested by some, it implies that another body will take over the functions of the censor board and this will set an unhealthy trend.</p>

<p>A legislator of a political party has problems with the fact that a Rajput queen is dancing in front of everyone which he says is completely against Rajput culture and pride.</p>

<p>&quot;The legendary queen (Padmavati) has been reportedly portrayed in a bad light (in the film). Rani Padmavati never danced, rather all women from royal families lived a very dignified life and whenever they felt that their chastity is in danger, they would jump into the fire, so that nobody can touch them. Rani Padmavati was one of them,&quot; Raj Purohit, chief whip of the BJP in the Maharashtra assembly said.</p>

<p>Is it really so? It is disappointing that a representative of the people, who should be open minded and carries a responsibility to be progressive has raised such objections. He is in all probability referring to the song &quot;Ghoomar&quot; from the film which features Deepika Padukone as Rani Padmini, dancing before the king and members of the palace. Instead, the queen should be lauded for her initiative (in the film). There is nothing vulgar in the way she is dancing. It is quite tastefully done.</p>

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<h5>Sanjay Leela Bhansali has repeatedly said that there is no scene in the film that can hurt the sentiments of the Rajputs.</h5>
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<p>Sanjay Leela Bhansali has repeatedly said that there is no scene in the film that can hurt the sentiments of the Rajputs.</p>

<p>In fact, the trailer repeatedly talks about the valour of the Rajputs. Phrases like &quot;Rani Padmini is our pride and honour&quot;, &quot;The one who never gives up and fights the enemy till his very last breath is a Rajput,&quot; &quot;One who accepts all challenges and emerges victorious is a Rajput&quot; feature in the trailer.</p>

<p>I am slightly disappointed by the fact that a brilliant filmmaker as Sanjay Leela Bhansali has been focussing on regressive themes in his last few films. Let us hope he has not glorified the practice of Jauhar. Rani Padmini allegedly committed self-immolation during the siege of Chittor.</p>

<p>Mr Bhansali&#39;s previous film &quot;Bajirao Mastani&quot;, which was also accused of distorting historical facts but ultimately released across India, highlighted the love triangle between Bajirao Peshwa, his wife and his mistress. Perhaps the filmmaker could feature more socially progressive and relevant topics in his films that would help India transition from a developing society to a developed one.</p>


Sanjay Leela Bhansali has been focussing on regressive themes in his last few films but he can't be tried for committing treason for taking inspiration from a work of fiction

It is a question that the protestors who want the film "Padmavati" to be banned must first ask themselves before they take extreme steps, such as vandalising the film's sets in Jaipur or suggesting that the acclaimed director is tried for distorting history on grounds of treason. The question is can somebody be tried for treason because he took inspiration from a work of fiction. The Sanjay Leela Bhansali film is reportedly based on the 1540 fictional piece "Padmavat" by the famous poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi. The poem is a tribute to the valour of Rani Padmini, wife of the Rajput ruler of Mewar, Ratan Singh. In 1303, Alauddin Khilji, a king of the Delhi Sultanate, laid siege of the fort of Chittor. The poem Padmavat states that Alauddin Khilji started the campaign to conquer Chittor motivated by his desire to capture Rani Padmini who committed Jauhar (self-immolation) along with other women to save their honour. × The Padmavat states that Alauddin Khilji started the campaign to conquer Chittor motivated by his desire to capture Rani Padmini who committed Jauhar (self-immolation) along with other women to save their honour. Interestingly, the accounts prior to the "Padmavat" that describe Alauddin Khilji's Chittorgarh conquest make no mention of the queen. Historian Amir Khusrau, who accompanied Alauddin Khilji during the important historical event, and records it in "Khaza'in ul-Futuh" makes no mention of Rani Padmini. Later accounts of Rani Padmini are all adaptations of the "Padmavat". Most modern historians have rejected the authenticity of the legend around Rani Padmini. Rajput community leaders, several members of the BJP in the state and various right-wing organisations, including the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, the Sarv Brahmin Mahasabha and the Bajrang Dal have asked for a ban on the film, alleging that the filmmaker has distorted historical facts regarding Rani Padmini. Their objections are to an alleged dream sequence between Rani Padmavati and Alauddin Khilji which the film's director has repeatedly denied. The Supreme Court has refused to stay the release of the film and said that the Central Board of Film Certification or the censor board follows guidelines and considers all aspects before granting a certificate to any film. The filmmaker is yet to take the approval of the censor board, a process which routinely takes 21 days. A legislator of a political party has problems with the fact that a Rajput queen is dancing in front of everyone which he says is completely against Rajput culture and pride. × The Rajasthan government's suggestion is to set up a committee to examine the facts. Even if historians are invited to be committee members as suggested by some, it implies that another body will take over the functions of the censor board and this will set an unhealthy trend. A legislator of a political party has problems with the fact that a Rajput queen is dancing in front of everyone which he says is completely against Rajput culture and pride. "The legendary queen (Padmavati) has been reportedly portrayed in a bad light (in the film). Rani Padmavati never danced, rather all women from royal families lived a very dignified life and whenever they felt that their chastity is in danger, they would jump into the fire, so that nobody can touch them. Rani Padmavati was one of them," Raj Purohit, chief whip of the BJP in the Maharashtra assembly said. Is it really so? It is disappointing that a representative of the people, who should be open minded and carries a responsibility to be progressive has raised such objections. He is in all probability referring to the song "Ghoomar" from the film which features Deepika Padukone as Rani Padmini, dancing before the king and members of the palace. Instead, the queen should be lauded for her initiative (in the film). There is nothing vulgar in the way she is dancing. It is quite tastefully done. Sanjay Leela Bhansali has repeatedly said that there is no scene in the film that can hurt the sentiments of the Rajputs. × Sanjay Leela Bhansali has repeatedly said that there is no scene in the film that can hurt the sentiments of the Rajputs. In fact, the trailer repeatedly talks about the valour of the Rajputs. Phrases like "Rani Padmini is our pride and honour", "The one who never gives up and fights the enemy till his very last breath is a Rajput," "One who accepts all challenges and emerges victorious is a Rajput" feature in the trailer. I am slightly disappointed by the fact that a brilliant filmmaker as Sanjay Leela Bhansali has been focussing on regressive themes in his last few films. Let us hope he has not glorified the practice of Jauhar. Rani Padmini allegedly committed self-immolation during the siege of Chittor. Mr Bhansali's previous film "Bajirao Mastani", which was also accused of distorting historical facts but ultimately released across India, highlighted the love triangle between Bajirao Peshwa, his wife and his mistress. Perhaps the filmmaker could feature more socially progressive and relevant topics in his films that would help India transition from a developing society to a developed one.

Padmavati row: Much ado over a piece of fiction?

<p>Actor Irrfan Khan on Friday addressed the controversy over Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed <em>Padmavati</em>, saying said it is for the government to decide who has the authority to certify a film for release.</p>

<p>Various groups, most of them from the Rajput community, have accused Bhansali of &quot;distorting&quot; historical facts in the film which features Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh. &quot;It is in censor board&#39;s (Central Board of Film Certification) hand to give certificate.<br />
<br />
&quot;The government will decide... Whose validity (matters)... Whether it is Censor board or other bodies. I am not in that position to decide or say anything,&quot; Irrfan told reporters here.<br />
<br />
Earlier on Friday, hundreds of people associated with various community organisations took out a morcha in Thane demanding a ban on the film.<br />
<br />
Bhansali had earlier said that the film is his tribute to the &quot;sacrifice, valour and honour&quot; of Rani Padmavati. He has also said there is nothing in the film that will hurt anyones sentiments and sensibilities.<br />
<br />
The film is set to release on December 1.</p>


Various groups, most of them from the Rajput community, have accused Bhansali of "distorting" historical facts in the film.

Actor Irrfan Khan on Friday addressed the controversy over Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed Padmavati, saying said it is for the government to decide who has the authority to certify a film for release. Various groups, most of them from the Rajput community, have accused Bhansali of "distorting" historical facts in the film which features Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh. "It is in censor board's (Central Board of Film Certification) hand to give certificate. "The government will decide... Whose validity (matters)... Whether it is Censor board or other bodies. I am not in that position to decide or say anything," Irrfan told reporters here. Earlier on Friday, hundreds of people associated with various community organisations took out a morcha in Thane demanding a ban on the film. Bhansali had earlier said that the film is his tribute to the "sacrifice, valour and honour" of Rani Padmavati. He has also said there is nothing in the film that will hurt anyones sentiments and sensibilities. The film is set to release on December 1.

Irrfan Khan on Padmavati: Government has to decide whose validity matters

<p>If Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s video on Thursday was not enough, now the production house Bhansali productions has sent a letter to the National President of Akhand Rajput Seva Sangh clarifying that the film Padmavati does not malign the honour of the Rajput community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The letter, of which WION has a copy of, is a response to Sangh&#39;s letter dated November 2. &nbsp;The letter states that Sanjay Leela Bhansali is a &#39;responsible filmmaker and the production house &#39;respects all communities&#39;.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;Due to a certain rumour and false propaganda and news, this film is being attacked and is in the midst of protests from the Rajput community. We state for the record that the film portrays the honour, bravery, valour and dignity of the Rajputs and their beloved queen, Rani Padmavati. &nbsp;We further confirm that we have not in any manner deflected from the honour, pride and supreme sacrifices made by Rani Padmavati has been depicted in the most dignified manner,&quot; the letter states.<br />
<br />
&quot;We have time and again clarified and once again reassure you that there is no intimate scene/dream sequence between Rani Padmavati and Allaudin Khilji, &quot; the letter further adds.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The film has been in the eye of storm since January this year over an alleged scene between Rani Padmavati and Allaudin Khilji. While the makers have denied the inclusion of any such scene, the film continues to face opposition from various Rajput communities.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The film is scheduled to release on December 1 and stars Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor in the lead.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Bhansali productions has sent a letter to the National President of Akhand Rajput Seva Sangh clarifying that the film Padmavati does not malign the honour of the Rajput community.

If Sanjay Leela Bhansali's video on Thursday was not enough, now the production house Bhansali productions has sent a letter to the National President of Akhand Rajput Seva Sangh clarifying that the film Padmavati does not malign the honour of the Rajput community. The letter, of which WION has a copy of, is a response to Sangh's letter dated November 2. The letter states that Sanjay Leela Bhansali is a 'responsible filmmaker and the production house 'respects all communities'. "Due to a certain rumour and false propaganda and news, this film is being attacked and is in the midst of protests from the Rajput community. We state for the record that the film portrays the honour, bravery, valour and dignity of the Rajputs and their beloved queen, Rani Padmavati. We further confirm that we have not in any manner deflected from the honour, pride and supreme sacrifices made by Rani Padmavati has been depicted in the most dignified manner," the letter states. "We have time and again clarified and once again reassure you that there is no intimate scene/dream sequence between Rani Padmavati and Allaudin Khilji, " the letter further adds. The film has been in the eye of storm since January this year over an alleged scene between Rani Padmavati and Allaudin Khilji. While the makers have denied the inclusion of any such scene, the film continues to face opposition from various Rajput communities. The film is scheduled to release on December 1 and stars Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor in the lead.

Padmavati Row: Now Bhansali Productions writes a letter to Akhand Rajput Seva Sangh

<p>Sanjay Leela Bhansali&rsquo;s <em>Padmavati</em> has been facing the heat rom several right-wing outfits for a long time now. Shri Rajput Karni Sena had even attacked the director earlier this year, while the film&rsquo;s shooting was under its way in Jaipur. The activist group objected to an alleged scene that would have Allaudin Khilji (played by Ranveer Singh) romancing Rani Padmavati (Deepika Padukone) in a dream sequence.</p>

<p>Despite assurance from the makers that no such scene was being shot, opposition around the film continued to grow. From Shri Rajput Karni Sena to BJP and Congress, everyone stated that film was &lsquo;distorting history&rsquo;.</p>

<p>On Thursday, the filmmaker issued a statement via a video which was posted on the film&rsquo;s official Facebook page. Bhansali categorically denied that filming any dream sequence between Rani Padmavati and Allaudin Khilji. &ldquo;I have denied this before and given a written proof of the same then, and today, through this video, I am reiterating that in our film, there is no scene between Rani Padmavati and Alauddin Khilji that will hurt any sentiments.&rdquo; The filmmaker added that the team had made the film very &lsquo;responsibly, keeping in mind the Rajput dignity and respect.&rdquo; The filmmaker added that film salutes Rani Padmavati&rsquo;s valour and sacrifice.</p>

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<p>While the film is scheduled to release in theaters on December 1, there has been strong opposition from BJP against its release. Speculations are rife that the film&rsquo;s release may get pushed. <em>Padmavati </em>features Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor.</p>


On Thursday, the filmmaker issued a statement via a video which was posted on the film?s official Facebook page.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmavati has been facing the heat rom several right-wing outfits for a long time now. Shri Rajput Karni Sena had even attacked the director earlier this year, while the film’s shooting was under its way in Jaipur. The activist group objected to an alleged scene that would have Allaudin Khilji (played by Ranveer Singh) romancing Rani Padmavati (Deepika Padukone) in a dream sequence. Despite assurance from the makers that no such scene was being shot, opposition around the film continued to grow. From Shri Rajput Karni Sena to BJP and Congress, everyone stated that film was ‘distorting history’. On Thursday, the filmmaker issued a statement via a video which was posted on the film’s official Facebook page. Bhansali categorically denied that filming any dream sequence between Rani Padmavati and Allaudin Khilji. “I have denied this before and given a written proof of the same then, and today, through this video, I am reiterating that in our film, there is no scene between Rani Padmavati and Alauddin Khilji that will hurt any sentiments.” The filmmaker added that the team had made the film very ‘responsibly, keeping in mind the Rajput dignity and respect.” The filmmaker added that film salutes Rani Padmavati’s valour and sacrifice. × While the film is scheduled to release in theaters on December 1, there has been strong opposition from BJP against its release. Speculations are rife that the film’s release may get pushed. Padmavati features Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor.

Padmavati row: Sanjay Leela Bhansali releases video, denies filming any dream sequence between Rani Padmavati and Allaudin Khilji

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-mla-dares-bhansali-to-make-movies-on-mughals-taimur-and-mohammad-prophet-23668" target="_blank">Opposing the upcoming release of Hindi film &#39;Padmavati&#39;, the BJP</a> MP of Ujjain, Chintamani Malviya, has said that those like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the director of the film, only understands the &quot;language of shoes&quot;.</p>

<p>&quot;People like Bhansali do not understand any other language. People like him only understand the language of shoes. This country will not disrespect Rani Padmavati. We will not tolerate any distortion of our history,&quot; the 48- year-old MP wrote in a Facebook post yesterday.</p>

<p>The<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sanjay-leela-bhansalis-padmavati-film-set-vandalised-13412" target="_blank"> film has kicked up a row </a>as Rajput organisations in Rajasthan have accused the filmmaker of distorting history.</p>

<p>&#39;Padmavati&#39;, starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor, and Ranveer Singh, is slated for release on December 1.</p>

<p>&quot;I strongly protest and propose boycotting the movie &#39;Padmavati&#39;. I request my well-wishers not to watch this movie. It is shameful to make such films for the greed of money,&quot; the BJP leader said.</p>

<p>Malviya, who is also the Madhya Pradesh BJP spokesperson, claimed that Bhansali had made the film on the basis of &quot;incorrect history&quot; written by the court poet of Alauddin Khalji.</p>

<p>&quot;How come filmmakers whose women family members change their husbands every day can understand &#39;Jauhar&#39;? Mental deformity of Bhansali would not be tolerated in the name of freedom of expression,&quot; Malviya wrote on Facebook.</p>

<p>He told PTI that he had made the remarks in his individual capacity.</p>

<p>Asked about the objectionable language in the post, Malviya said, &quot;If the film industry crosses its boundaries, then it should not be expected that the elected representatives will be within their limits.&quot;</p>

<p>Asked if it was justified to appeal to the people to boycott the film before its release, the BJP leader said, &quot;Everyone knows that the movie is based on the epic, &#39;Padmavat&#39;, written by Malik Mohammed Jaysi. The filmmaker (Bhansali) has made the film more imaginative and insulted the tradition of &#39;Jauhar&#39; by twisting the golden history of the country.&quot;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Congress demanded Malviya&#39;s expulsion from the BJP over the &quot;offensive&quot; Facebook post and demanded that legal steps be initiated against him.</p>

<p>&quot;We also consider Rani Padmavati as an idol for Indian women, but the BJP MP cannot be justified as he has insulted other women,&quot; said Madhya Pradesh Congress spokesman Narendra Saluja.&nbsp;</p>


Opposing the upcoming release of Hindi film 'Padmavati', the BJP MP of Ujjain, Chintamani Malviya, proposed boycotting the movie

Opposing the upcoming release of Hindi film 'Padmavati', the BJP MP of Ujjain, Chintamani Malviya, has said that those like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the director of the film, only understands the "language of shoes". "People like Bhansali do not understand any other language. People like him only understand the language of shoes. This country will not disrespect Rani Padmavati. We will not tolerate any distortion of our history," the 48- year-old MP wrote in a Facebook post yesterday. The film has kicked up a row as Rajput organisations in Rajasthan have accused the filmmaker of distorting history. 'Padmavati', starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor, and Ranveer Singh, is slated for release on December 1. "I strongly protest and propose boycotting the movie 'Padmavati'. I request my well-wishers not to watch this movie. It is shameful to make such films for the greed of money," the BJP leader said. Malviya, who is also the Madhya Pradesh BJP spokesperson, claimed that Bhansali had made the film on the basis of "incorrect history" written by the court poet of Alauddin Khalji. "How come filmmakers whose women family members change their husbands every day can understand 'Jauhar'? Mental deformity of Bhansali would not be tolerated in the name of freedom of expression," Malviya wrote on Facebook. He told PTI that he had made the remarks in his individual capacity. Asked about the objectionable language in the post, Malviya said, "If the film industry crosses its boundaries, then it should not be expected that the elected representatives will be within their limits." Asked if it was justified to appeal to the people to boycott the film before its release, the BJP leader said, "Everyone knows that the movie is based on the epic, 'Padmavat', written by Malik Mohammed Jaysi. The filmmaker (Bhansali) has made the film more imaginative and insulted the tradition of 'Jauhar' by twisting the golden history of the country." Meanwhile, the Congress demanded Malviya's expulsion from the BJP over the "offensive" Facebook post and demanded that legal steps be initiated against him. "We also consider Rani Padmavati as an idol for Indian women, but the BJP MP cannot be justified as he has insulted other women," said Madhya Pradesh Congress spokesman Narendra Saluja.

Those like Bhansali only understand language of shoes: BJP MP on 'Padmavati'

<p>The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Telangana, Raja Singh, on Tuesday, threatened Sanjay Leela Bhansali that he would have to pay if the history was distorted in his upcoming movie &#39;Padmavati&#39;.</p>

<p>Singh said, &quot;If Padmavati has distorted history, Sanjay Leela Bhansali will have to pay the price. We won&#39;t allow its release in Telangana.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;In an attempt to earn money, the history is being misrepresented. Bhansali has made an attempt to bring a change in the history by portraying that Alauddin Khilji was in love with Queen Padmini,&quot; added the BJP MLA.</p>

<p>He even challenged Bhansali to make movies on Mughals, Taimur or Prophet Mohammad, adding, &quot;I will invest for it.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;How dare you make movies on rulers who have exploited our country? He should not hurt the sentiments of Hindus,&quot; said Singh.</p>

<p>Earlier on Sunday, Union Minister Giriraj Singh dared &#39;Padmavati&#39; director Sanjay Leela Bhansali to make films on other religions.</p>

<p>The period drama starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor has been facing protests from various communal groups, including the Shree Rajput Karni Sena, for tampering historical facts.</p>


Earlier on Sunday, Union Minister Giriraj Singh dared 'Padmavati' director Sanjay Leela Bhansali to make films on other religions.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Telangana, Raja Singh, on Tuesday, threatened Sanjay Leela Bhansali that he would have to pay if the history was distorted in his upcoming movie 'Padmavati'. Singh said, "If Padmavati has distorted history, Sanjay Leela Bhansali will have to pay the price. We won't allow its release in Telangana." "In an attempt to earn money, the history is being misrepresented. Bhansali has made an attempt to bring a change in the history by portraying that Alauddin Khilji was in love with Queen Padmini," added the BJP MLA. He even challenged Bhansali to make movies on Mughals, Taimur or Prophet Mohammad, adding, "I will invest for it." "How dare you make movies on rulers who have exploited our country? He should not hurt the sentiments of Hindus," said Singh. Earlier on Sunday, Union Minister Giriraj Singh dared 'Padmavati' director Sanjay Leela Bhansali to make films on other religions. The period drama starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor has been facing protests from various communal groups, including the Shree Rajput Karni Sena, for tampering historical facts.

BJP MLA dares Bhansali to make movies on Mughals, Prophet Mohammad

<p>Former Congress leader Shankersinh Vaghela has demanded a pre-release screening of movie &quot;Padmavati&quot; for Hindu and Kshatriya community leaders to check whether facts have been distorted in the film and warned of violent protests if its makers failed to do so.</p>

<p>&quot;As the movie is expected to be released on December 1, I want Bhansali to first show it to Hindu as well as Kshatriya leaders as people suspect that some facts have been distorted and presented in a wrong way in the movie,&quot; the Kshatriya strongman told reporters in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The film, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor, is scheduled for release on December 1.</p>

<p>Mr Vaghela said one cannot tamper with historical facts and present them as per one&#39;s wishes to get &quot;cheap publicity&quot;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;If the movie is released without pre-screening, Gujarat will witness violent protests and law and order may go out of control. I apologise to the cinema owners in advance if people take law into their hands,&quot; the former Gujarat chief minister said.</p>

<p><br />
Mr Vaghela quit the Congress after the Rajya Sabha polls in August and launched a new front, Jan Vikalp, which would field its candidates on all the 182 seats in Gujarat, where assembly elections will be held in December in two phases.</p>

<p>The upcoming movie had earlier run into controversy after the Rajasthan-based Rajput community group Karni Sena raised objections over depictions in the movie, claiming that history was being distorted.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Mr Bhansali was attacked by Karni Sena members during the shooting of the film in Rajasthan.</p>

<p>Last month, alleged Karni Sena members burnt posters of the film after the first look of main characters - Padmavati (Deepika Padukone), Maharawal Ratan Singh (Shahid Kapoor) and Allaudin Khilji (Ranveer Singh) -- was released.</p>

<p>They also threatened to oppose the screening of the movie in theaters if the facts were distorted.&nbsp;</p>


The upcoming movie had earlier run into controversy after the Rajasthan-based Rajput community group Karni Sena raised objections over depictions in the movie, claiming that history was being distorted.

Former Congress leader Shankersinh Vaghela has demanded a pre-release screening of movie "Padmavati" for Hindu and Kshatriya community leaders to check whether facts have been distorted in the film and warned of violent protests if its makers failed to do so. "As the movie is expected to be released on December 1, I want Bhansali to first show it to Hindu as well as Kshatriya leaders as people suspect that some facts have been distorted and presented in a wrong way in the movie," the Kshatriya strongman told reporters in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. The film, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor, is scheduled for release on December 1. Mr Vaghela said one cannot tamper with historical facts and present them as per one's wishes to get "cheap publicity". "If the movie is released without pre-screening, Gujarat will witness violent protests and law and order may go out of control. I apologise to the cinema owners in advance if people take law into their hands," the former Gujarat chief minister said. Mr Vaghela quit the Congress after the Rajya Sabha polls in August and launched a new front, Jan Vikalp, which would field its candidates on all the 182 seats in Gujarat, where assembly elections will be held in December in two phases. The upcoming movie had earlier run into controversy after the Rajasthan-based Rajput community group Karni Sena raised objections over depictions in the movie, claiming that history was being distorted. Earlier this year, Mr Bhansali was attacked by Karni Sena members during the shooting of the film in Rajasthan. Last month, alleged Karni Sena members burnt posters of the film after the first look of main characters - Padmavati (Deepika Padukone), Maharawal Ratan Singh (Shahid Kapoor) and Allaudin Khilji (Ranveer Singh) -- was released. They also threatened to oppose the screening of the movie in theaters if the facts were distorted.

Want Bhansali to show 'Padmavati' to Hindu, Kshatriya leaders before release: Shankarsinh Vaghela