Here's why Prabhas rejected playing Maharawal Ratan Singh opposite Deepika Padukone in 'Padmaavat'
‘Padmaavat’ is one of the highest grossing films of this year. Embroiled in unending controversies, the film went through some rough patches, but came out with flying colours. The period drama starred Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor in lead roles, and the audience was mighty impressed with each one’s performance in the film.
While Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh were already cast for the role of Rani Padmavati and Alauddin Khilji respectively, the makers were still trying to decide on an actor for Maharawal Ratan Singh’s role. Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who directed the magnum opus was apparently highly impressed with ‘Baahubali’ actor Prabhas and wanted to cast him as Maharawal Ratan Singh.
Prabhas who was shooting for ‘Baahubali 2’ at the time was also all ready to act with someone as renowned as talented as Bhansali. However, according to a source close to the project, when Prabhas heard the narration and the scope of his role, he reportedly did not want to sign ‘Padmaavat’.
Prabhas’ felt that since Raja Ratan Singh’s role wasn’t as meaty in nature, all the hard work and image that he had worked for in ‘Baahubali’ and its sequel would have lost its impact. The source claimed that he was looking for nothing less than a central role at par with that of Deepika Padukone.
Prabhas was later replaced by Shahid Kapoor.
‘Padmaavat’ to be screened at the 21st Shanghai International Film Festival
Sanjay Leela Bhansal directorial ‘Padmaavat’ had quite a dramatic release. From vandalism of the sets to nationwide protest demanding a ban against the movie to death threats, the multi-starrer faced way too much before it hit the big screens and became immensely successful.
Even the fringe groups which demanded a ban against film rose in support of the movie which had nothing objectionable against the Rajputs as it was alleged by them.
Now the Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor starrer is all set to reach international boundaries. As per latest reports, ‘Padmaavat’ is now being screened at the 21st Shanghai International Film Festival after crossing over Rs 585 crores at the worldwide box office.
The magnum opus will be screened in the non-competition section of Focus India of the SIFF, which is to be held from June 16 to 25. 'Padmaavat' broke box office records both on home turf and overseas, helping filmmaker Bhansali outdo his last box office numbers.
The film is based on the legend of Rani Padmini, a 13th century Hindu Rajput queen, mentioned in Padmavat, an Awadhi poem written by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi in 1540.
Deepika Padukone wants to treasure her ‘Jauhar’ outfit from ‘Padmaavat’
Apart from all the external difficulties the film and its cast faced, the ‘jauhar’ scene, which was a major highlight of the film, was reportedly the most difficult part for the actress. The scene is apparently so close to her heart that the actress recently reached out to the filmmaker requesting him to give her the outfit she had worn for the climax scene to treasure it for life.
Speaking about the same, Deepika reportedly said that although the entire journey of ‘Padmaavat’ will stay with her forever, the climax scene was one of the most memorable and intense ones.
'Padmaavat' stars Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh bonded over music
Shahid Kapoor to give ‘Padmaavat’ success bash a miss?
The party will be reportedly thrown on February 24, which also happens to be Sanjay’s birthday.
'Padmaavat': Sanjay Leela Bhansali describes Jauhar scene as an "emotional" challenge, reveals how Ranveer Singh even "puked"
Shooting the sequence was no bed of roses, recounts the filmmaker, who describes it as an "emotional" challenge.
SLB reportedly stated that by the end of the shooting of the "Jauhar sequence", there were "frayed nerves" and "rising tempers".
The director allegedly revealed that the junior artists would "meander off in groups" in between shoots and "doze off" due to "exhaustion".
According to reports, he also added that the scene had emotionally drained Deepika and physically drained Ranveer Singh.
Bhansali allegedly revealed that in the shot where the women throw hot coal on Ranveer, they used "burning rubber tyres" to look like "burning coals". The strong stench of the rubber tyres reportedly sent Ranveer into a corner to "puke" before every shot.
'Padmaavat': When Ranveer Singh was about to assault someone while being in his Khilji mode
Ranveer Singh plays the cruel ruler Alauddin Khilji in 'Padmaavat' who does not believe in principles or mercy. The actor who focused for more than a year on his character in the film has revealed how he got too close to his reel self. According to a report, Ranveer once misjudged a situation off-camera on the sets and was about to physically assault someone for a minor mistake while still being in his Khilji mode. The actor said that he said to himself, "Wait a second, this is not real." and suddenly his instinctive reaction was that of the character's and not his own.
‘Padmaavat’: Rajput Karni Sena withdraws protest against the Sanjay Leela Bhansali film
A letter signed by Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena's national vice-president Yogendra Singh Katar and Sena's Maharashtra coordinator Jeevan Singh has reportedly been handed over to Bhansali production, claiming that they do not have any objection over screening the movie now.
Speaking to TOI, Katar said, "We saw the movie and do not find anything wrong or defamatory in the movie. So, we have decided to withdraw our agitation against the movie and will allow its release in Gujarat and Rajasthan."
In their letter, the group themselves stated that there is no objectionable scene between the Delhi Sultanate Alauddin Khilji and Queen Padmini of Mewar which hurts the sentiments of Rajputs, one of the main allegations that lead to mass protests in parts of the country. The group also declared that they take back their protest and will help the administration to release the film in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat as well as across all cinema houses in India.
Earlier in the day, the Rajasthan High Court ordered the special screening of 'Padmaavat' on Monday, following a petition filed by film director Sanjay Leela Bhansali to quash an FIR filed against him and actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh at Deedwana police station last year in March.
'Padmaavat': Makers file complaint with cyber cell department following film's leak online
'Padmaavat', earlier titled 'Padmavati' has reportedly been affected by the online leak and rampant sharing and downloading of the pirated copy. Despite the makers procuring a John Doe order (which helps to protect intellectual property rights where the persons are anonymous) from Madras High Court a couple of days ago to prevent any person or entity from infringing the film rights, 'Padmaavat' got leaked online on the internet. Yesterday, the co-producers allegedly lodged complaints with the cybercrime cells of Maharashtra, Delhi and Chandigarh and the cyber cell department has blocked a few IP addresses.
Pics: This is how ‘Padmaavat’s Rawal Ratan Singh and Alauddin Khilji came to life
In a series of pictures that have surfaced online, makeup artists can be seen working on Shahid to create the bloodied look of Rawal Ratan Singh when he is taken captive. Another series of pictures show Ranveer as the younger version of Alauddin Khilji and the makeup involved to nail that look. Overall, these pictures go to show how important this aspect is to the success of a film as grand as ‘Padmaavat’.
Padmaavat
'Padmaavat' row: Malaysia becomes the first country to ban the Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial
Malaysia, a Muslim-majority country, has banned the film over concerns regarding ‘sensitivities of Islam’. Malaysia's Film Censorship Board (LPF) put the movie in its 'not approved' list and signed its age rating section as 'not relevant'.
According to reports, a movie producer familiar with LPF's ratings told a leading Malaysian news portal that 'not relevant' remark signifies banned movies which are likely to incite communal uneasiness and hatred.
Unlike in India, Malaysia's censor board has the ultimate power in terms of allowing or disallowing a film from screening. Their verdict cannot be questioned or upheld by any court of law.
‘Padmaavat’: Shahid Kapoor finds Swara Bhasker’s open letter on the film odd
Speaking about the open letter, Shahid reportedly said that he is aware of the letter written by the actress however he is yet to read it as it is quite lengthy and they are currently busy.
Shahid also reportedly said that ‘Padmavati’ represents the entire film industry for its freedom of speech and expression. The makers had a tough time releasing the film and that the B-town was in full support of the film. In such a scenario, Swara’s personal opinion on the film through an open letter is strange but everybody has the right to say what they feel.
According to Swara’s letter, ‘Padmaavat’ glorifies the issues of ‘jauhar’, ‘honour killings’ and the practice of ‘sati’ and that at the end of the film she just felt reduced to a vagina only.
Pics: Shahid Kapoor promotes ‘Padmaavat’ in a theatre by interacting with fans
Now that the film has successfully made it to the theatres, Shahid Kapoor visited a theatre in Mumbai to promote the film and interact with the fans. Looking all dapper in a t-shirt, black ripped jeans and denim jacket, Shahid not only paused and posed for the shutterbugs but also intermingled with the audience who came in to watch the film.
The film is being loved and appreciated by the audience and critics alike. It also reportedly did an all-time record in US/Canada on its opening day. ‘Padmaavat’ also stars Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone in lead roles.
Deepika Padukone celebrates success of 'Padmaavat', indulges in delectable 'Rajasthani thali'
With all the applause for the film, it was time for a toast for the leggy lass. Deepika, on Sunday, indulged in a delectable spread of Rajasthani cuisine to celebrate the success of the 'Padmaavat'. Donning an ethnic green outfit and big earrings to go with it, she spelled elegance of all sorts.
Essaying the role of the Queen of Chittor, Rani Padmini, Deepika has won hearts all over the world. Helmed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film also starred Ranveer Singh as Alauddin Khilji and Shahid Kapoor as Maharawal Ratan Singh.
‘Padmaavat’: A Facebook user live streams Sanjay Leela Bhansali film from inside a theatre
According to reports, the film was live streamed on Facebook by a user straight from inside the theatre screening the film. Not only the film but various stills from the film were also shared on the social media. More than 15,000 people reportedly shared the link and the video garnered about 3.5 lakh views.
Despite of the film’s release amidst tight security, incidents of violence were reported from across the country. The film starred Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor in lead roles.
Farhan Akhtar calls out Karni Sena for their acts of blatant terrorism
According to videos shot from inside the bus, students and teachers were seen hiding behind the seats to protect themselves from the stones being hurled by the protesters. The school bus was right behind a state-run bus which was torched by the protesters. The acts of vandalism have been criticized from all corners and Farhan Akhtar joined in as he wrote, “Attacking a school bus is not an agitation. It is terrorism. The people who did it are terrorists. Please refer to them as such.”
Sections of attempt to murder imposed on ‘Padmaavat’ protesters in Ahmedabad
Senior cops said they have arrested around 100 people and seized about 50 bikes belonging to rogue elements which went on a rampage. Different units under Special CP KLN Rao have been formed to investigate the FIRs and identify rioters with video footage from CC TV cameras, video footage from the media and police's own video coverage. Senior home department officials said 4 companies of RAF have deployed.
Top police officials admitted that there was intelligence lapse on protests turning violent, in future such permissions for protests will have to pass the scrutiny test. In the end, cops have not ruled out the involvement of Karni Sena in the violence as the probe is still on.
It is worthy to note that after a candlelight protest turned violent on Tuesday evening targeting several malls and multiplexes, torching more than 50 vehicles and also vandalizing vehicles parked in societies of Vastrapur and Gurukul. Cops had to fire two rounds in the air to disperse extremely violent and hooded rioters.
‘Padmaavat’: Karni Sena reacts to Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s invitation to watch the film
He reportedly added that the letter will be put into flames as it is just a part of a show-off which has been done in an endeavour to prove that the makers have invited Rajput community leaders. Kalvi also reportedly appealed to the Prime Minister to ban the film under section 6 of the Cinematography Act. Karni Sena had earlier threatened of a mass ‘jauhar’ (self-immolation) by Kshatriya females, and he apparently reiterated his stance. By all indications, the fringe outfit is still opposed to the peaceful release of ‘Padmaavat’ even though the Supreme Court cleared its path last week as it overruled the bans imposed by Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Haryana.
Advocate Harish Salve threatened of ‘dire consequences’ by Karni Sena if ‘Padmaavat’ releases on January 25
After the advocate in the court proved that the states have no power to issue such notifications banning the exhibition of a film when CBFC has given a certificate for its release, he has been reportedly receiving several threatening calls from the fringe outfits. According to the reports, Karni Sena members called Salve to threaten him of dire consequences if the film is released on January 25 and have also dared him to complain against them.
The Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra restrained the states from banning the exhibition of the film as it has been already cleared by the censor board, saying it was the responsibility of the state governments to ensure law and order.
'Padmaavat': Rajput Women threaten to make Sanjay Leela Bhansali commit Jauhar if the film is released
Addressing a press conference hours after Supreme Court paved way for the nationwide release of the film that was banned by four states, including Rajasthan, the women said that the community was firm on its decision for a ban on the film.
A working committee member of the Rajput Sabha stated that though they "respect the Supreme Court order" they felt it was "one-sided". Further, they asserted that they will "file a petition in court" and also "meet the President" with their version on the matter.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali to promote ‘Padmaavat’ on Karan Johar’s reality show?
Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar finds nothing objectionable in 'Padmaavat'
According to reports, Sri Sri loved the film and didn't find anything objectionable in it. He even wondered why there was such a fuss around the movie even when the film honours Rajput warriors and pays a tribute to Rani Padmini. Sri Sri reportedly further felt that SLB's magnum opus will make us feel proud and he has advised that it is a film and everyone should celebrate it.
Bhansali's film was embroiled in a nationwide controversy over an alleged and unproven distortion of historical facts in the film and was banned from screening in many states till it was cleared by CBFC recently. The initial release date of the film, December 1, 2017, has been pushed to January 25, 2018.
Read the story in Marathi here
Makers of ‘Padmaavat’ to arrange for paid previews on the night of January 24?
According to reports, while Padman releases on January 25, ‘Padmaavat’ will release the night before. The distributors of ‘Padmaavat’ are reportedly likely to reimburse the film that is scheduled for the 9.30 pm show that day and screen the magnum opus instead. There will be only one paid preview and is set to happen across India.
Read the story in Marathi here
Karni Sena vandalises school in Madhya Pradesh after students perform on ‘Ghoomar’ song from ‘Padmaavat’
According to reports, a school in Madhya Pradesh's Ratlam was allegedly vandalised by members of Shri Rajput Karni Sena after students performed on the song 'Ghoomar' from the film. The incident was reported from Saint Paul's Convent School here, where students from grades one to five performed to the song during their annual day function.
Following this, members of the Karni Sena allegedly destroyed school property while the performance was going on. The police were reportedly informed about the incident and reached the spot to investigate.
The film that stars Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh is all set to be released on January 25, 2018.
'Padmaavat' Row: Karni Sena workers detained for protesting outside CBFC office in Mumbai
The film which stars Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh are banned in Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh whereas Goa's Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar confirmed that the film which is titled 'Padmaavat' now, would release in the state.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Padmavati’ has officially been renamed as ‘Padmaavat’
Speculations were rife that the film has been renamed as ‘Padmavat’, named after the 16th Century epic poem that the film is reportedly an adaptation of. Now, the film’s title has been changed to ‘Padmaavat’ on all its official social media pages.
Currently, banned in Rajasthan, ‘Padmaavat’ is all set to hit the screens on January 25, 2018. However, an official announcement from the producers is awaited.
'Padmavati': Mewar royals unhappy with CBFC’s move, write to I & B minister Smriti Irani
Arvind Singh Mewar, who was a part of the review panel, expressed his dissatisfaction with allowing the movie to release. He said that it was not a matter of how many cuts there are in the film, but more about whether or not it is historically accurate. The upset Mewar family has also written a letter now to the Information and Broadcasting minister Smriti Irani, with a warning that there could be unrest in Rajasthan if the movie is allowed to release.
‘Padmavati’: CBFC passes it with ‘UA’ rating on condition of certain modifications and change in film’s title
They further tweeted that the certificate will be issued once the required and agreed modifications are made. The tweet read, “Central Board of Film Certification had examining committee meeting on 28 Dec to review #Padmavati & decided to give it UA certificate along with some modifications & likely change of the title to Padmavat. Certificate to be issued once required & agreed modifications are made.”
In further tweets, ANI quoted CBFC on how the committee arrived at the final decision of certification and modifications. “The film was approached with balanced view keeping in mind both the filmmakers and society. Considering complexities & concerns around the film the requirement for a special panel was felt by CBFC to add perspective to the final decision. Special panel consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr.Chandramani Singh & Prof K.K. Singh of Jaipur University. Panel member had insights and also some reservations regarding claimed historical events & socio-cultural aspects which were duly discussed at length” CBFC was quoted by ANI.
Shahid Kapoor reveals ‘Padmavati’ will get a new release date by year-end
Asked if the controversy over the magnum opus put a dampener on his professional life in 2017, the 36-year-old actor said the year held a lot of excitement for him as he got to be a part of a "memorable" film like 'Padmavati'. "Of course, there has been the whole controversy around 'Padmavati' but it is such a special film. When I look back at this year, it has been one of the most exciting years in my career - to be doing 'Padmavati', to be a part of a film which I really believe is going to be historic and remembered, if I may say so," he said. "That's how I feel about it. So, I am very happy with this year. The wait is killing me. I am dying for the film to come out," Shahid added, reported PTI.
‘Padmavati’: Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film to get CBFC certificate today?
If rumours doing the rounds are true, then the film which is currently awaiting certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) will reportedly be passed today. The film could not keep its December 1 date with the audience as it failed to meet the board's deadline apart from receiving numerous threats from fringe groups warning them against releasing the historical drama.
Online reports claim that the board refused to certify the film as the disclaimer stating whether ‘Padmavati’ was a work of fiction or not, wasn’t mentioned clearly. However, it now appears that the film will get its certificate today with reports also hinting that the makers are eyeing an early January (5th or 12th) release, while others hint at a February release on the cards.
Ranveer Singh reveals why he cried during 'Padmavati' shoots
Ranveer recently talked about his experience working with SLB for the third time and how the director has always given him the space to experiment and add his flavour to the film. Admitting that he was allowed to "freestyle" in previous ventures, he says this time, Bhansali had a clear vision of what he wanted, the way he wanted Alauddin Khijli to be. So, to take his direction and try and apply it was very challenging for the actor, some times. Ranveer even revealed that he would leave the set and cry if he didn't get it and come back in a while to try to finish it.
Despite ‘Padmavati’ facing innumerable obstacles, Ranveer has kept his cool as he feels the process itself is the prize.
The film that also stars Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor, is awaiting its certification from the CBFC with reports hinting at a February release on the cards.
‘Padmavati’ release making industry folk wary, to clash again with John Abraham's 'Parmanu'?
With ‘Padmavati’ still at the CBFC awaiting its certification, many reports are now claiming that the film is eyeing a January or mid-February release. As the film is reigning on popularity charts, producers of other films are reportedly wary about the announcement of the final release date, but it remains to be seen if they stand their ground or bow out once again.
‘Padmavati’ stars Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor in leading roles.
'Padmavati' : Goa may ban the film citing potential law and order problems
Parrikar was speaking to reporters in Panaji after a delegation of the Goa Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s Mahila Morcha led by its president Sulakshana Sawant met him at his official residence to demand a ban on the film's screening in Goa.
The delegation also claimed that it was portraying distorted history. "The other issue about this controversy is a law and order problem, which Goa can't afford in the tourist season. A touristic state has to be peaceful. So we will look into both aspects of it.”
"As of now, the censor board's certificate is not granted, so will take a call after it is granted...whether they take into consideration all these aspects and edit the film accordingly," Parrikar told reporters after accepting the memorandum submitted by Sawant.
The Chief Minister also said the issues raised by the delegation, including wrong portrayal of queen ‘Padmavati’, was also justifiable. "This is the country's history, where we believe that she committed 'johar' to protect herself. Anyway I will not go into what is there actually in the film. That is for the censor board to look into," he said, complementing the Morcha's members for raising a "right issue".
"My personal opinion is straight that history should be portrayed correctly. If history is portrayed in a wrong way, then people's sentiments might be hurt," Parrikar said. In their memorandum, the Morcha's members said the film "distorts history" and "wrongly links adored queen Padmavati with Muslim ruler Allaudin Khilji, who was an “aggressor".
"It has been a habit of filmmakers to distort Hindi(u) icons and traditions in the guise of creativity. History has depicted 'Padmavati' as having committed johar to escape dishonour. Large sections of the Indian people adore queen Padmavati for her valour and chivalry," the memorandum read. "The release of the controversial film is likely to hurt the sentiments of a large section of society creating unrest in peaceful Goa. The sentiments of women have also been hurt by the wrongful portrayal of queen Padmavati in poor light and association with Khilji is unacceptable," it added.
‘Padmavati’: Modi government seeks historians' help to review Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film
According to reports, the Union Information and Broadcasting ministry has now sought the help of the Human Resource Development ministry. Apparently, the I and B ministry wrote a letter to HRD ministry asking them to suggest some eminent historians who can be part of the CBFC panel that will review ‘Padmavati’ before clearing it.
Meanwhile, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor have voiced their displeasure over the constant protests and threats but were happy with the unanimous support of the film fraternity.
‘Padmavati’: Shatrughan Sinha slams director Sanjay Leela Bhansali
‘Padmavati’: Shahid Kapoor “shocked” over protesters targeting co-star Deepika Padukone
However, at a recent event, Shahid Kapoor, who plays Maharawal Ratan Singh, expressed his shock over the incidents. When asked about the protests against Deepika, the actor said, "It’s terrible. I didn’t expect this — so much being spoken about a lady. I am very shocked with that."
He was also asked if the Bhansali’s recent Parliamentary panel session in Delhi, worsened the situation of the film’s release. The actor was quoted saying, “It’s strange the way things have happened, but I don’t think they have worsened. We are surprised that it’s taking longer than anyone had anticipated. The release date has been deferred. People have chosen to make their decisions before seeing the film. I have been saying from the beginning that everyone should decide only after they’ve seen the film. I’ve been urging people to not have any preconceived notions about the film, which are not based on facts. I think facts can be discussed only when people have seen the movie."
Kajol refuses to comment on ‘Padmavati’ controversy
At an event, the actress was asked for her views about the attacks on Sanjay Leela Bhansali and creative expression in general. While Kajol made it clear that she will not comment on the film, she added that it is the "perfect time" for actors to do the kind of films they like. She believes people have become a lot more accepting, which gives actors the freedom to experiment more with their roles.
At a time when ‘Padmavati’, its makers and cast are receiving unanimous support from the film fraternity, what are your thoughts on Kajol’s comments?
‘Padmavati’: Sanjay Leela Bhansali to release second trailer featuring Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor?
According to reports, Bhansali is allegedly going to release a second trailer soon that will focus entirely on Deepika and Shahid. This clip will reportedly see the two stars exchanging powerful and romantic dialogues.
While seeing this will surely be another visual spectacle, there is, however, no confirmation on the same.
The film that was initially scheduled to release on December 1, has been postponed to an undisclosed date. Yielding to pressure from fringe groups and political parties, the film has been banned in six states in India thus far.
Meanwhile, although the film has been cleared by censor boards abroad, director Bhansali has said that reports of him releasing the film overseas were incorrect and that he would await certification from the CBFC.
The film also features Ranveer Singh as the antagonist Sultan Alauddin Khilji, Aditi Rao Hydari and Jim Sarbh.
‘Padmavati’ row: After Gujarat and MP, CM Nitish Kumar bans the film in Bihar
The CM reportedly issued a statement stating that the film will not be released in Bihar until the concerned parties issue an adequate clarification. According to reports, protests were being staged outside Bihar legislative assembly, with several politicians of the BJP protesting against Sanjay Leela Bhansali's controversial film.
This also comes after SC earlier today said that the final authority to make any decisions on the film lies with the CBFC. It also reprimanded the state Government against giving statements and passing comments on films which haven’t been cleared by CBFC.
The Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh starrer film was initially supposed to be released on December 1 but following the protest, it has been pushed to oblivion.
‘Padmavati’: Rani Mukerji comes out in support of Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Talking about the hot topic at a recent event, Rani emphasized that society needed to be more loving. "We need to be more loving as a society, as humanity... We need to go towards love. We have to disassociate with something which is unloving. I believe in love because I am a new mother," Rani said when asked if she believed that a director must have cinematic liberty.
Prodded to openly back Bhansali, the actress said that the filmmaker doesn't need Rani Mukerji to back him. She went on to say, "He knows that I back him, love him. He is my darling and he knows how I stand by him. I don't need a platform to express that."
Rani, who worked with Bhansali in ‘Black’, added that the film changed her "as a person and as a performer".
‘Padmavati’ now faces protest by Rajput Samaj in the UK
According to the reports in PTI, the President of the Rajput Samaj of UK, Mahendrasinh Jadeja, was reportedly of the view that the film ‘Padmavati’ distorts their history, culture, and traditions and because it has been boycotted by so many states in India, the filmmakers are trying to use a clever approach of getting the film released in the UK.
Although the makers of the film have already reportedly stated that the film will release in the UK in line with the Indian release, Jadeja said that they cannot trust the makers anymore as they have broken many reassurances in the past.
The British Board is yet to comment on the Rajput Samaj’s boycott appeal.
‘Padmavati’ row: Dead body found hanging at Jaipur’s Nahargarh fort with a chilling message
According to reports, locals reportedly informed the police about the body found near the main gate of the Nahargarh Fort, which is one of the tourist attractions of the Pink city. The police are yet to find out the exact cause of the death. The body has not been identified as well. A chilling note was also seen scribed on a rock near it which read, “Hum sirf putle nahi latkate – Padmavati” (We just don’t hang effigies)
Meanwhile, condemning the act, President of Karni Sena has reportedly said that although the protest against the film ‘Padmavati’ is justified, such acts are not justified. He also apparently added that they will never resort to such means of protest against the film and that it is not how their group functions.
‘Padmavati’ reportedly insured for Rs 140 crore
Producers to not release 'Padmavati' in UK even after clearance by its Censor Board?
On the latest while, 'Padmavati' got clearance from the British Board of Film Classification to release its “uncut” version, producers of the film have reportedly refused to screen the film in UK before it is cleared in India.
The British Board of Film Classification has cleared without cuts the costume drama with a 12A rating, making it mandatory for a child below 12 to accompany an adult for the film.
Ranveer Singh says he stands by his film ‘Padmavati’ and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Answering the media gathered outside a store in Mumbai where the actor had graced his presence, Ranveer Singh reportedly stated that he stands by his film ‘Padmavati’ and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali. He clarified that he has been asked to not to say anything and that any official information about the film will be made by the producers.
Stepping out of the store with police protection, the actor had taken his position atop his car to answer questions from the media. The actor plays Delhi Sultan Alauddin Khilji in the movie, which Bhansali says is a tribute to the valour of Rajput queen Padmavati.
Shahid Kapoor optimistic about ‘Padmavati’ release
"This is not the time to be angry; this is not the time to lose your cool because there are enough people doing that right now. So I would choose to say that I believe in the process and I am very optimistic. I am sure 'Padmavati' will come out. Once people see the film, they will be proud of it like we are. All of this will be forgotten then," said the 36-year-old said at an event.
Shahid went on to add, "Our constitution says that you are innocent until proven guilty. Same should be extended to 'Padmavati', it should not be considered guilty even before it is provided for people to judge it."
This is not the first time Shahid’s film has been withheld by Central Board of Film Certification. Last year, ‘Udta Punjab’ met with a similar fate but eventually released and was applauded by fans and critics alike.
Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, 'Padmavati' also stars Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh.
Padmavati row: Akhil Bharatiya Kshatriya Mahasabha announce Rs 1 crore reward to anyone burning Deepika Padukone alive
Stating that the actress should realise how it feels when Rani Padmavati had performed Jauhar to save her modesty, the ABKM President reportedly said that Deepika would know the real character of Rani Padmavati when she is burnt alive. He also added that they will give Rs 1 crore to anyone forcing her to do so.
Meanwhile, due to CBFC’s refusal to certify the film on the grounds of ‘incomplete application’, the makers have voluntarily delayed the film’s release. Initially, set to hit the screens on December 1, the film’s new release date hasn’t been announced yet.
'Padmavati' row: Deepika Padukone's 'xXx' co-star Ruby Rose comes out in support of her
The 31-year-old Australian model said she is in shock to read what her 'dear friend' is going through. Rose also said she is in "absolute awe" of Deepika's "strength and courage". Ruby took to Twitter and shared a post that read, "I am in shock at reading what my dear friend is going through but in absolute awe of her strength and courage. Deepika you are one of the strongest women I know."
‘Padmavati’ row: Maharashtra government ensures security to theatres screening the film
Minister of State for Home (Urban) Ranjit Patil told the media that they will take all measures to ensure security and are keeping a close watch to prevent any untoward incident. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had already provided a precautionary security cover to Bhansali who is facing death threats for a while now.
For the record, the opposing groups had met government representatives on the issue for discussion. Ram Kadam, BJP legislator from Mumbai, who is also the president of the Film Studios Setting and Allied Mazdoor Sangh, is opposing the film and has refused to work with Bhansali in future. Rajput Karni Sena has also announced nationwide bandh on December 1, the release date of ‘Padmavati.’