Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje has written a letter to Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani regarding the upcoming movie Padmavati. In the letter CM Raje has urged Mrs. Irani to ensure that movie is not released until the necessary changes are made to the film.
Chief Minster has suggested that a committee including historians, film experts, and Rajput Community members should be formed. The committee should look into the matter and suggest changes so as to ensure that there’s no element in the movie that hurts the sentiments of any community.
After the letter was written, a delegation from Mewar Region consisting of MLA Chittorgarh Chandrabhan, Rajasthan Urban Development Minister Shrichand Kriplani, and other met CM Raje and expressed gratitude for writing to Union Minster Irani.
The Letter
This is the first official communication initiated by the Chief Minister since the controversy regarding the movie broke out. She pointed out that filmmakers have the right to make a movie on the basis of their understanding but there are provisions in the constitution that control such rights in case the public sentiments are hurt.
Controversy
The film Padmavati is being opposed by Rajasthan’s Rajput Community and Karni Sena because of the allegations that it contains a dream scene between Rani Padmavati and Allauddin Khilji. Apart from some parts of Rajasthan, the protests have intensified in other states like Maharashtra, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, etc.
In reality, there was no interaction between Rani Padmini and Allauddin. In fact the Rajput Community regards her as a highly sacred queen who fearlessly performed Jauhar. The Rajputs are demanding deletion of scenes that are objectionable in the film.
Opinion of the team
The movie Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, as well as Actor Deepika Padukone, have stated that there is no such dream sequence and that there is nothing in the film that hurts the sentiments of people. The team is requesting to allow the film to release and give it a chance.
Consequences
After the protests led to threatening, blocking entrances to forts, and burning effigies, the production house Viacom 18 has deferred the release date of the movie. Soon another release date will be announced after receiving requisite clearance from CBFC.
