Fawad Khan's 'Legend of Maula Jatt' finally eyes India release
What's the story
Fawad Khan's The Legend of Maula Jatt is reportedly set to release in India on September 20, 2024.
The film, which was a massive success in Pakistan and internationally, has been acquired by Zee Studios for distribution, reported Bollywood Hungama.
This will mark the first Pakistani film to be released in India in a long time.
Previous release
Film's previous release was postponed indefinitely
The Legend of Maula Jatt was initially scheduled for an Indian release on December 30, 2023. However, the film's premiere was postponed indefinitely due to resistance from certain sections.
An INOX official had informed PTI about the decision, stating that they were notified by the distributors about the postponement a few days prior to the planned release.
Film success
'The Legend of Maula Jatt': A record-breaking success
The Legend of Maula Jatt, which first hit theaters in Pakistan in October 2022, has been a record-breaking success.
It is currently the highest-grossing Pakistani film and the highest-grossing Punjabi-language film of all time.
The film's success has been attributed to its fresh take on the 1979 Pakistani film Maula Jatt, featuring a star-studded cast including Khan and Mahira Khan.
Film controversy
MNS leader had issued warnings against film's release
The Legend of Maula Jatt's release in India has been a topic of controversy, with Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Ameya Khopkar issuing warnings against the film's screening.
Following the film's cancellation, Khopkar took to X/Twitter to state, "After the warning given by MNS, the screening of the Pakistani film The Legend of Maula Jatt has now been completely canceled."
Popularity
Fawad, Mahira's popularity in India
Khan and Mahira enjoy a significant fan following in India, having previously worked in Bollywood.
Their globally successful Pakistani sitcom Humsafar was also acquired by ZEE5, further boosting their popularity.
Khan made his Bollywood debut with Khoobsurat in 2014 and later appeared in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Kapoor & Sons.
Mahira starred opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the 2017 film Raees.