Jaipur theaters stop screening 'Panipat', after protests by Jat groups
Following massive protests in parts of Rajasthan over the film's content, several theaters in state capital Jaipur have now stopped screening of Ashutosh Gowariker's period drama movie Panipat, upon orders of the state government. The protesters, mainly leaders from the Jat community, have alleged that the movie distorts historical occurrences and shows wrongful portrayal of their ancestors. Here are more details on this.
Protests broke out against the film, as the Jats of Bharatpur alleged that the movie shows Maharaja Surajmal in a bad light. Notably, in the movie, Maratha warrior Sadashiv Rao Bhau asks the Maharaja for help against the invading Afghans. However, the latter refuses to help when his demands aren't met with. The protesters said that this is a wrongful portrayal of Maharaja Surajmal.
Now, the Government of Rajasthan, upon orders of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, has asked the movie distributors to put the screening of the film on hold, until further notice. Subsequently, shows were canceled at various theaters of the capital city, including Raj Mandir, Cinepolis and Inox theaters. The state government has also sought a response from film producers, in the matter.
CM Gehlot said, "We respect art and culture but no one's sentiments should be hurt. This is why we talked to film distributors." "The reactions that are coming about the portrayal of Maharaja Surajmal ji in the film... such a situation should not have been created," he said, adding that the Censor Board should intervene and take cognizance of the matter.
Meanwhile, Raj Bansal, an official of the Rajasthan Film Trade and Promotion Council said, "Cinema halls have to bear the brunt in such a situation," adding that the central government should form a committee to examine the film before sending it to the Censor Board. Notably, the Jats, backed by political leaders, have demanded a ban on the film in many North Indian states.
Directed by Gowariker, Panipat released on Friday, December 6. It stars Arjun Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt, and Kriti Sanon in lead roles. The movie is based on the epic Third Battle of Panipat, that was fought between the Maratha empire and Afghan King Ahmad Shah Abdali. The film has received mixed reviews from critics, and has recorded an underwhelming box office performance, so far.
To recall, last year in January, several fringe groups carried out violent protests across states in North India against the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's historical drama Padmaavat. It was alleged that the movie portrayed Rani Padmini of Chittor in a wrongful manner. However, the film was eventually cleared by Censor Board after some edits. The title was also changed from Padmavati to Padmaavat.
