The title of Akshay Kumar’s upcoming period drama Prithviraj has been changed amid concerns raised by groups like Karni Sena and Akhil Bhartiya Veer Gurjar Mahasabha. The social groups had threatened to stall the film’s release in certain states and Sri Rajput Karni Sena had filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) to raise objections against the title.
Now, Yash Raj Films has issued a letter announcing that the name of the film has been changed. The magnum opus based on the life of King Prithviraj Chauhan of the Chauhan dynasty has been titled Samrat Prithviraj.
The letter reads: “We, Yash Raj Films Private Limited, have been one of the leading production houses and distribution companies since its inception in the 1970s and continue to grow as one of India’s largest film studios. We have produced some of the most iconic films in the history of Indian cinema and have goodwill from over 50 years in the entertainment industry.”
“We are committed to constantly creating and producing content for the enjoyment of all audiences.”
The makers further clarified that they did not intend to hurt any community or person’s sentiments. They assured that the movie doesn’t disrespect the late warrior but through it, they “wish to celebrate his bravery, achievements, and contribution to our nation’s history.”
“As per the multiple rounds of discussions between us, and to peacefully and amicably resolve the raised grievance, we will change the title of the Film to ‘Samrat Prithviraj’,” the production banner announced.
The letter further read: “We are highly appreciative of the mutual agreement reached between us that you have no further objections with regards to our Film and that all other points raised by you earlier are no longer a point of contention between us. We thank Shri Rajput Karni Sena and its members for understanding our good intentions pertaining to the depiction of the great warrior in the film.”
Also starring Sonu Sood, Sanjay Dutt and Manushi Chillar, Prithviraj Samrat is set to hit the theatres on June 3. It has been helmed by Chandraprakash Dwivedi.
