DEHRADUN: Sushant Singh Rajput-Sara Ali Khan’s new film, Kedarnath, opened to mixed reviews on Friday, December 7. While many praised Khan’s performance and the chemistry she shared with Rajput, many believed that it was an ambitious film. However, it is not the critisism that has posed a problem for the film, rather a grave news has overshadowed its release. The film is now facing controversies and has reportedly been banned in seven districts in Uttarakhand.
Addressing the media on Friday, state tourism minister Satpal Maharaj said that the film goes against their culture and can instigate people. Kedarnath depicts the interfaith love story of a Muslim boy and a Hindu girl, set against the backdrop of the 2013 North India floods.
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The Uttarakhand High Court on Thursday dismissed a petition seeking a ban on the film for allegedly hurting the sentiments of the Hindus. Despite the HC ruling, the state government — acting on a report submitted by a committee headed by Maharaj — reportedly asked district magistrates to decide on the matter depending on situation in their jurisdictions. Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Ashok Kumar told news agency PTI that the film has been banned in seven districts: namely, Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, Udham Singh Nagar, Pauri, Tehri and Almora.
Last month, Uttarakhand BJP media representative Ajendra Ajay had demanded a banned on the film and accused it of promoting ‘love jihad’. Kedarnath is directed by Abhishek Kapoor who is known for his films Kai Po Che and Rock On. The film has been co-produced by Ronnie Screwvala’s RSVP Movies and Guy In The Sky Pictures.
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State tourism minister Satpal Maharaj said that the film goes against their culture and can instigate people. The fim depicts a love story of a Muslim boy and a Hindu girl, set against the backdrop of the 2013 North India floods.