Bollywood director Abhishek Chaubey’s forthcoming film Udta Punjab is constantly grabbing controversy for one reason or another. Earlier, film actress Neetu Chandra slammed the director with an Open Letter condemning the stereotyping of Biharis in Bollywood films and now it seems that CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) is also not too happy with the content of the film.
The censor board or CBFC has now demanded whopping 89 cuts and removing all reference to political scenario and election issues in Punjab. Initially, 40 cuts were sanctioned mainly referring to the slang and drug addiction in Punjab, but with less than 2 weeks before its release, it has been now ordered that Udta Punjab shall be released with 89 cuts !
Political Cacophony Over Udta Punjab
Sources claim that the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP coalition government in Punjab are not in favor of releasing the film without cuts as it portrays the state in bad taste. The way Udta Punjab has tried to focus on the dark reality of the state – drug addiction – it might turn out as a huge political issue in the upcoming state assembly elections 2017.
However, the Udta Punjab crew is not ready to give in just yet. It is learnt that the producers will move to Bombay High Court against the Censor Board’s judgment. If the matter reaches court then it is sure that the release of this highly socio-political melodrama will get postponed.
What the Legend Jeetendra Said
Once popularly called Jumping Jack, the veteran actor Jeetendra, asked for calm and peace. “We respect the people of Punjab and certainly would never want to hurt their sentiments. We have and will always go by whatever right advice the CBFC gives! Films are for entertainment, not for defamation and we have no such intention as I, myself, am a proud son of Punjab, the legendary actor said.”
Bollywood actor Tusshar Kapoor tweeted the same immediately what his dad stated ;
Jeetendra: We respect the people of Punjab & certainly would never want to hurt their sentiments. We have & will always go by whatever right
— Tusshar (@TusshKapoor) June 6, 2016
advice the CBFC gives! Films are for entertainment, not for defamation & we have no such intention as I, myself, am a proud son of Punjab!
— Tusshar (@TusshKapoor) June 6, 2016
Many fans and Bollywood celebrities are strongly opposing the cuts imposed on the film. Udta Punjab is trending whole day on social media following Censor Board’s verdict on it.