Sonali Joshi Pitale (MID-DAY; August 7, 2015)

While the Censors in quite a few countries have decided to ban Riteish Deshmukh and Pulkit Samrat-starrer Bangistan, a local religious outfit is said to have demanded a stay on the film’s release in India for “ offensive content”. Apprehensive of an untoward situation, the actor duo has asked for police security as the film hits the marquee today.

A source says, “The film revolves around two suicide bombers, one Hindu and the other, a Muslim. Both Pulkit and Riteish know what the consequences can be if someone misunderstands their characters. And such controversies have happened in the past. Therefore, they have asked the makers if they can be provided with additional security on the release day, which is today.” So far, the film, which was given a U/A certificate, has been banned in Pakistan,

UAE, Singapore, Kuwait and Bahrain after their respective censors found its content objectionable. Another source says, “After it was banned in a few countries, the Censor Board in India has received a letter from the Hindu Legal Cell demanding a stay on its release. They are objecting to the portrayal of a Hindu as a terrorist in the film. They have also taken exception to a scene in which Pulkit dresses up as lord Hanuman and is later seen indulging in terrorist activities.”

The film’s spokesperson confirms the story, stating: “ Additional security arrangements have been made for Pulkit and Riteish to avoid any mishaps. Even the makers of the project are taking precautionary measures since the film releases today.”

Director Karan Anshuman says, “Some Hindu outfit has taken objection to the film and written a letter to Censor Board, but I don’t know if it will affect the release.”