The film Padmavati may not be released until next year, with its producers hinting at putting their plans on hold amid unrelenting protests in several states by Rajput groups.
Promotions of the Rs. 190-crore movie based on an epic poem are on hold, sources have told NDTV.
The film was originally slated for December 1 but the producers had deferred its release. A delay was inevitable as the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), popularly called the censor board, withheld the movie’s clearance, saying its paperwork was incomplete.
Rajput groups have called for a ban on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s costume drama starring Deepika Padukone, alleging that their legendary 13th-century queen has been denigrated by the filmmakers.
Many politicians cutting across party lines have demanded a ban on the film.Large protests have been held in different cities including Chittor in Rajasthan, which was home to Padmini, the Rajput Queen.
Deepika Padukone and her family have been given security following threats like one put out by a Haryana BJP leader recently.
Surajpal Amu, BJP’s chief media coordinator in Haryana, has offered Rs. 10 crore for the heads of Deepika Padukone and Mr Bhansali.
The Rajput Karni Sena, which is spearheading the protests, has said they will punish Deepika Padukone the way Lakshman punished Ravana’s sister Surpanakha in the epic Ramayana – by chopping off her nose.
