No Sanjay Leela Bhansali movie can release without its share of controversies, outrage, and legal notices. After everything that went down with SLB prior to the release of Padmaavat, the celebrated filmmaker is back with Gangubai Kathiawadi that is all set to release on February 25. With just a few more days to go, the film continues to find itself amid legal trouble. Three petitions have been filed against the film and the hearing was held at the High Court today.
A petition was filed against the film over the usage of the word ‘China’ in one of the dialogues seen in the trailer. But Sanjay’s lawyer went on to argue in court stating that the dialogue is not to hurt Northeastern people since the actor in the scene is a Chinese actor and not someone belonging from Northeast India.
“I am not asking for something big, not doing this for publicity. Why do you want to hurt the feelings of our own people (Northeastern),” argued the lawyer further revealing that he isn’t against the release of the film.
SLB’s lawyer, Ravi Kadam went on to say that the petition needs to be dismissed on the grounds of ignorance. “This area has had traditional Chinese doctors. This has nothing to do with northeastern residents. If I am showing a Chinese doctor dealing with a dental issue, what is the problem?” The lawyer also submitted the dentist’s board in the movie that stands proof. Revealing that Kamathipura (the area in which the film is shot/based) has a Chinese Cemetery. “In fact, one of the two oldest Chinese restaurants in Mumbai was in Kamathipura. It is a historical fact. The film is based in the 1950s. The movie is based on one of the chapters in the book.”
The film is based on Gangubai Harjivandas who was sold into prostitution by her suitor after she ran away from her home to Mumbai. She eventually became an influential figure in the area and went on to become Madam of Kamathipura. The film also stars Ajay Devgn in a special cameo, Shantanu Maheshwari, Vijay Raaz, Indira Tiwari, and Seema Pahwa in pivotal roles.
Reported by ANI, the petition has been dismissed by the High Court. The tweet read, “Bombay High Court dismisses two petitions against the film ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ and disposes off another petition against the movie.”
