After MP, Rajasthan, Gujarat bans Padmavati; CM says Rajputs are hurt

Mumbai: Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming period film 'Padmavati' has been grabbing headlines since the time of its announcement. Right from disrupting shooting to vandalising sets, Karni Sena of Rajasthan has been going out and about to ensure 'Padmavati' doesn't get release. And to add to it, after Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, a third BJP-governed state, Gujarat, which chooses its new government next month, has banned Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming period film Padmavati. Reports are that Kshatriya community leaders from BJP have apparently written to the Chief Election Commissioner demanding the stalling of 'Padmavati' release ahead of Gujarat elections.

Vijay Rupani, the Chief Minister of Gujarat, said today, "The government of Gujarat will not allow 'Padmavati' - a movie hurting sentiments of Rajputs - to get released in the state. We can't allow our history to be distorted. We believe in freedom of speech and expression but any foul play with our great culture is not tolerated."

“There are elections here and there could be a law and order situation. Many sections are hurt and have opposed it too,” he said.

The makers of Padmavati have clarified time and again that the film has no objectionable content and has been made keeping Rajput pride in mind. The makers had shown the film to select journalists who had said that the film does not distort history. However, it did prove to be helpful to curb the protests.