Sonali Joshi Pitale (MID-DAY; November 20, 2014)

The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is ready to kickstart today in Goa and a Marathi film titled Elizabeth Ekadashi is supposed to mark the opening of the Indian Panorama section the following day. However, the plans may go haywire as a Hindu orthodox group has apparently sent a notice to the festival organisers regarding screening of this particular film.

A source says, “The Hindu Janjagruti Samiti has threatened to stall the film screening as they feel the title is misleading. They have submitted a memorandum to the festival organisers stating that Ekadashi is related to lord Vishnu and the title has hurt the sentiments of Hindus. So, they are demanding that the screening be cancelled.”

Tanu Rai, deputy director of the Indian Panorama segment, feigned ignorance about the matter. But, another official confirms having received the memorandum and adds: “The inaugural show is slated for 12.10pm on Friday so if the screening is cancelled or postponed, there will be a big problem as many celebrities and other dignitaries are expected to turn up. Elizabeth Ekadashi has received a good response since its release last week. But the IFFI authorities have to take a decision soon.”

Paresh Mokashi, who has helmed the Marathi film, says he isn’t aware of any such opposition from the saffron outfit. “I have no information about it and so, cannot comment. This is news to me,” he adds.