When actors come on forefront, the focus gets shifted, says Shahid Kapoor
The Bombay High Court on Monday rapped the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for the cuts it ordered in the film 'Udta Punjab', saying ‘mere references, signboards of Punjab does not affect sovereignty and integrity of India.’ The decision by the court has come as a big relief for the makers as they can now release the film with only one cut and a revised disclaimer.
After the final verdict of Udta Punjab by Bombay HC on Monday afternoon, the team held a press conference to thank the media for its support and celebrate the victory of prolonged battle with the censor board. The press conference saw the presence of Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Diljit Dosanjh, Vikas Bahl, Anurag Kashyap and Abhishek Chaubey.
Elated Vikas Bahl said, “The verdict yesterday has been fantastic for all of us, for the country, for Udta Punjab and we want to thank the court and its verdict. But the verdict comes with a lot of responsibility. Now there is a freedom to make or say we can. I think we have become more responsible because freedom comes with a lot of responsibility but at the same time it is on our shoulder to ensure that we will do right things so that this verdict is respected and stays with us forever and they wont take it away from us. Cheers to all of us. Udta Punjab is coming on June 17th.”
Anurag Kashyap, who arrived a little late at the press conference said, “We fought the battle and we go such amazing support this time. The support came from Ekta, Phantom, from the entire industry and the media. This wouldn’t have been possible without anyone’s support. Though few people even doubted our intentions and accused us for gaining publicity but I think I haven’t seen this kind of support ever.”
Shahid Kapoor, who was mum on the controversy so far said, “Anybody who is speaking from our behalf is representing the entire team. At times, when actors come on forefront, the focus gets shifted so it was a team decision to appoint certain individuals to speak on everyone’s behalf. Me and Alia are still new to censorship issues and people in our team are facing it for a longer time. They had to deal with this issue for the much longer time. So we chose to do it in a way as balanced we can.”
Alia Bhatt said, “When I heard about the cuts that were suggested, I questioned my father but why? I wasn’t able to understand but my father has been fighting with this since the longest time. He was so sure that we will get the victory. I was so happy when I got to know that Udta Punjab is passed with A certificate with just one cut. I am enjoying the state where we can see the film release.”