New Delhi, January 16 (Indian Express) Shahrukh Khan had struck a deal with the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) that he would not involve his Pakistani co-star Mahira Khan in their film’s promotions in exchange for the peaceful release of Raees.
However, film exhibitors in central Indian state Chhattisgarh are now receiving threats from Shiv Sena. Raees is slated to release on January 25.
In a threat letter delivered to all exhibitors in Chhattisgarh, Rakesh Shinde, Chattisgarh Shiv Sena head, has asked exhibitors in Durg and Bhilai to not screen Raees in their theatres, failing which they will be solely responsible for the consequences.
Akshaye Rathi said, “All of us exhibitors in Chhattisgarh have got these letter which the subject reads a request for ban on Raees. The body of the letter asks all exhibitors to not screen any ‘deshdrohi’s film’ and if the cinema owners do so, they will be solely responsible for all the consequences. It’s signed by Rakesh Shinde, Chhattisgarh Shiv Sena head. It’s letter dated 5th January and was delivered to us day before yesterday.”
Exhibitors have to take threats of disruption seriously, Akshaye shared.
“It’s illegal to say that you will stall a film that has been certified by the CBFC for release. Also something needs to be done about this threat letter. We have informed the police about it. When PK was released, one of the cinemas in Bhilai was seriously vandalized and the damage cost me Rs6 lacs. Dilwale too has not yet released in Durg. Even if one cinema gets vandalized, people who want to watch the film will get scared and prefer staying at home and buying pirated copies which will affect the industry,” said Akshaye.
The threats have been reported to the police and the exhibitors plan to approach the Chief Minister for the smooth release of the film.
(The featured image at the top shows Shahrukh Khan of India and Mahira Khan of Pakistan in the film Raees)
