Padmavati controversy: Deepika Padukone says she wants to feel protected

Mumbai: Padmavati, which is based on the life of Rajput queen Padmini, is mired in controversy. From sections of the Rajput community to now many political groups have been demanding a ban on the film, alleging that Bhansali has distorted history. Recently, some of the protesters issued death threats to Deepika Padukone and Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

Amid the controversy when the actress was asked whether she would like to have better protection from the state, she said: “In an ideal world, yes. I think it is too soon to tell… But yes it would be nicer to feel safer or protected at this point.”

Speaking about all the protests and bans surrounding the film nationwide, the 'Bajirao Mastani' star said, “It is hurtful and it is sad. Cinema has the power to bring the people together, to unite people and to spread love. It is disheartening sometimes that people don’t recognise that.”

The actress also spoke about the gender dynamics of Indian cinema. “Yes, I’ve seen that transition. In the kind of films being made, in the kind of films I’m being offered, in the roles that are being written, and with women behind the camera not just in front of the camera,” said the actress.

In Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming period film Deepika will be seen as Rani Padmini, Shahid Kapoor as her husband and a warrior king Maharawal Ratan Singh and Ranveer Singh essays Alauddin Khilji.

The new release date for the film is yet to be announced.