NEW DELHI: Arya Samaj leader Swami Agnivesh came out in support of Aamir Khan blockbuster 'PK', saying those who are protesting against the film are "ignorant" about religion.
"Those who are protesting against the film are ignorant. I believe that they have not even seen the film. The movie has attempted to dispel the myths and supersitions," said Agnivesh.
Several activists of right-wing outfits Bajrang Dal and Hindu Sena have been demanding a ban on 'PK' stating the film has allegedly hurt religious sentiments.
"We really need to eliminate superstitions as our Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the very first day after taking charge had said that poverty will not end till the time we eradicate superstitions," Agnivesh told reporters.
"Misinterpretation of religion leads to the formation of superstitions which in turn leads to exploitation of people and crime," he said as he emphasised that true religion is about doing good work for others.
He said that even 'Khuda Ke Liye' was criticised by some religious "conservatives" and had called for a ban in Pakistan but ultimately the movie was a huge success.
He also gave the example of Da Vinci Code which was attacked for evoking anti-Catholic sentiments but was later accepted by everyone.
Agnivesh had recently advocated tax exemption for the film in view of the movie's "new message" that would encourage scientific temperament among students across India.
Agnivesh welcomed "the film which takes a swipe at superstitious beliefs and false idol worship practiced by some people in the name of religion, according to a statement released by his organisation Bandhua Mukti Morcha.