Addressing the media at a suburban hotel on Monday evening, self-styled spiritual leader Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh said that he is hopeful of his film Messenger of God's release despite the forces that are trying to jeopardise it.
Singh said that it has no objectionable content and, in fact, is aimed at inspiring the youth. "Our film encourages blood donation, food banks and speaks against prostitution and intoxication of any kind," he said.
He maintained that the fight sequences in the film were not a demonstration of muscle power or political strength. "The stunts have to be seen in the right context. They are either to defend women of the society or aimed at self defence, which is everybody's right," said Singh who admitted that he has seen but one film in his life, in 1984.
"I wanted to speak to the youth in the language they understand best, and hence decided to make the film. I want parents to send their kids to the film so they can learn a thing or two." Singh maintains that a lot of the content is based on his life. Reacting to allegations made by CBFC chief Leela Samson and her consequent resignation, Singh said that he has no idea what may have triggered the resistance. "People need to pin down a reason for their disapproval.
First it was the content, then government interference, then corruption. To me it seems like people are not respecting authority," he says referring to the appeals tribunal’s decision to clear the film — a move that upset the CBFC.
However, he cleared that he isn't very well versed with the law and is following instructions of his lawyers and the producers. Singh's followers took to Twitter after Leela's resignation and said that those who go against the guru must expect similar consequences. He cleared that he doesn't endorse the view.
"I am here to spread the Lord’s word and do not agree with what my followers may have said," he added. He said he was open to doing more films if the story would inspire youth and had no obscene content.
