There are no two ways about what has happened to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film Padmavati is unfortunate and something that could have been avoided. Various celebs from the film fraternity have been coming out in support of the film. Even as the release has been deferred from the initial December 1, 2017 date and now indefinitely postponed, lyricist-writer Javed Akhtar has made a strong statement against all those opposing the film starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh.
Talking to news channel Aaj Tak, Akhtar said, "The Rajputs and the Rajwadas never fought against the Britishers and now they are taking to the streets against a film and a filmmaker. All these 'ranas' 'rajas' and 'maharajas' of Rajasthan were all serving in the courts of the Britishers for 200 years. Where did their Rajput honour and valour go that time? They have become what they are since they had accepted to serve the Britishers," he said strongly, condemning the attacks on the film and the various protests around the country.
Akhtar further lamented, "If a poor, common rajput, standing on the streets has some problem, I am ready to listen to him and take what he says into consideration, but who are these people," he asked, taking a dig at the Karni Sena and the various Rajput groups demanding a complete ban on Padmavati.
He also highlighted how the law and order system and the agencies that are supposed to maintain it have failed Bhansali. He was aghast at the fact that nothing has been done against those issuing the threats, declaring Rs 5 crore bounty for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's head and Deepika's nose. "Chief Ministers from various states have been asking for the film to be delayed since they will not be able to handle the law and order. We have entrusted the job of eradicating terrorism from the country to these same people?," Akhtar questioned.
Irrespective of what fate the film Padmavati meets, the entire furor against the film, the open threats and vandalism has highlighted how the country is inadequate at handling the law and order situation and how easy it is to get away by issuing threats against someone. Appalling is a small word!.