Gujarat multiplex association has sought the government’s intervention as several theatres have received threats against the screening of Shah Rukh Khan starrer Pathaan. The multiplexes have urged state Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi to provide security to cinema halls when the movie releases on January 25.
The association, in its letter, stated that in the last 20 days, the majority of cinema exhibitors received verbal and written direct and indirect threats asking them not to screen Pathaan. The multiplexes also stated that the SRK movie was cleared by the Censor Board and other concerned authorities and in case any group has an objection about any aspect of the movie, they should escalate the same in the right forums.
Also, it was stated that “There are many groups that are illegally targeting cinema exhibitors based on their own understanding and agendas by unlawfully threatening cinema exhibitors with dire consequences in terms of safety and security of their property, staff and movie-goers if certain movies are released,” the letter read. “So we request all kinds of support from your end regarding protecting our properties and business interest.”
However, Pathaan movie faced controversy and calls for a ban after the release of its song Besharam Rang, also featuring Deepika Padukone, on December 12. A sequence in the song showing Deepika in a saffron bikini led to protests across India for allegedly hurting “Hindu sentiments”.
Earlier, in Gujarat Ahmedabad, Bajrang Dal workers tore down the posters at a mall in Vastrapur.
Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra frowned upon the colour of the attire of Deepika Padukone and actor Shah Rukh Khan in a song from the movie, calling for its “rectification”. Pathaan, which also stars John Abraham, is scheduled to hit the theatres on January 25.
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