‘Padmaavat’ Has Been Through so Much: Deepika Padukone

“I’m excited about the box office. It is going to be earth-shattering,”says Deepika Padukone.

Deepika Padukone addresses the media ahead of Padmaavat’s release.

(Image Courtesy: ANI)

After being embroiled in controversies for months, the most anticipated Sanjay Bhansali magnum opus Padmaavat starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor hits the theatres across India today.

Despite clearance from the CBFC with modifications and a change of title and a Supreme Court verdict against banning the film, protests by fringe groups continue in different parts of the country, almost terrorising many theatre owners into submission.

As the film finally sees the light of day, stars Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor address the media, a day before its release.

Expressing her excitement for the release, Padukone said:

<b>“</b><i>Padmaavat</i> has been through so much. To see it finally releasing and the reaction it is getting is extremely overwhelming... On behalf of the entire crew, we want to thank you for being so supportive... It’s time for us to celebrate and see the film do wonders at the box office. This time, I am excited about the box office because it is going to be earth-shattering.”

Deepika Padukone

Deepika seemed extremely emotional about the film’s release. Her co-star Shahid Kapoor also weighed in. He spoke about his role and called the film very important for him.

“Prior to ‘<i>Padmaavat’</i>, I was nervous because people know very less of my character (in the film)... It’s tough to essay a role like this. I feel thankful and honoured. We’ve done everything, it’s time for the people to decide what they feel.”

Shahid Kapoor

All this unruly behaviour despite early reviews indicating that the period drama in fact validates the honour and upholds the valour of the Rajput community and that there are no scenes between Rani Padmavati and Alauddin Khilji, the main point of protest.

Meanwhile, different parts of the country face vandalism and violence. Gurugram police has reportedly arrested 20 people for allegedly violating prohibitory orders and violence, an official has said. While making an appeal to boycott the film, controversial BJP leader Suraj Pal Amu called for peaceful protests against the film, after a bus conveying school kids was attacked.

After the attack on the school bus by anti-‘Padmaavat’ protesters, some reputed schools in Gurugram have decided to remain shut till Sunday, 28 January, in view of the violence over the controversial film's release.

(We Indians have much to talk about these days. But what would you tell India if you had the chance? Pick up the phone and write or record your Letter To India. Don’t be silent, tell her how you feel. Mail us your letter at [e-mail]. We’ll make sure India gets your message.)