Deepika Padukone finally broke her silence on the controversy surrounding her upcoming film Padmavati, even as actor Salman Khan stepped into the foray and gave his support to his old friend, director Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Speaking on the issue, Padukone said: “It’s appalling, it’s absolutely appalling. What have we gotten ourselves into? And where have we reached as a nation? We have regressed.
“The only people we are answerable to is the censor board, and I know and I believe that nothing can stop the release of this film.”
Khan has extended his support as well, saying: “I want to say that you have [the Indian] Censor Board, they will take a decision. Sanjay [Leela Bhansali] makes very beautiful and excellent films. His films never have any vulgarity. Looking at his previous track record, one should know that he will never portray any character in bad light.”
Padmavati, slated for release on November 30 in the UAE, has been embroiled in controversy as several groups and political parties claim that the film distorts history and portrays Rajput queen Padmavati wrongly — a contention Bhansali has repeatedly rebuffed.
Padukone said the film industry’s support symbolises how “this is not about Padmavati... We’re fighting a much bigger battle.”
The actress, who plays the title role in the film, said the movie is Bhansali’s tribute to the sacrifice, valour and honour of the Rajput queen.
The Indian Films and TV Director’s Association, along with four other bodies, on Monday expressed support for Bhansali with the #WeSupportPadmavati campaign and sought protection of freedom of expression for artistes.
IFTDA, Cine and Television Artists Association, and the Western India Cinematographers Association, Screenwriters Association, Association of Cine and TV Art Directors and Costume Designers have decided to extend support to Bhansali on November 16 at the Film City in Mumbai, where their members will stand in silence for 15 minutes from 11am (9.30am UAE time).
Padmavati also features Ranveer Singh as Allauddin Khilji and Shahid Kapoor as Rawal Ratan Singh. The stars of the film, along with Bhansali, will be headed to the UAE on November 24 to attend the Asia Vision Awards 2017, which will be held at the Sharjah cricket stadium.
