The Maharashtra government has provided a precautionary security cover to Bollywood filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali amidst increasing controversies and growing threats ahead of the release of his movie Padmavati, officials said.
The level of security provided to him is not yet clear, and Bhansali has so far not commented on it.
According to a report in ANI, Ashoke Pandit, Indian Film and Television Director’s Association’s convener made a statement about the ongoing protests surrounding Padmavati.
“Entire entertainment industry is under siege today, we are being terrorized, accused, beaten and abused. Threat warnings are being issued to creative people that we will decide what is to be made. This is cultural terrorism”.Ashoke Pandit, Convener, IFTDA
Ashoke Pandit also wrote a letter of gratitude to the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis. The letter incorporated a message of appreciation to the Maharashtra Government for providing security to Sanjay Leela Bhansali who has been threatened by various groups before the release of his upcoming film, Padmavati. He also requested the CM for assurance on the peaceful release of the film.
Take a look at the letter below:
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar also came out in support of Bhansali’s film, according to report in ANI.
“People should first watch the film, I condemn all these threats. Only the Censor Board has the authority to decide on a film. I understand how a director feels when after all the hard work one gets such threats”.Madhur Bhandarkar, Filmmaker
Bhansali’s next has been in the eye of storm since the makers began filming. The film, the cast and the crew have been facing opposition by the fringe and political groups. Amidst these threats and attacks, the film fraternity including actors like Salman Khan, and others have come forward to show support to the team of Padmavati.
(With inputs from IANS, ANI)
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