Pahlaj Nihalani: Full sympathy to Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Padmavati’ was slated to release on December 1, 2017, but it has been postponed due to the protests against the film and CBFC not providing the certificate because of incomplete application. The new release date is not yet been announced and ‘Padmavati’ is yet to be certified. And amidst all of that, there comes a surprising statement from someone who used to repel even the slightest of variations in cinema. Well, we are talking about former CBFC chief Pahlaj Nihalani, who recently stated that he has full sympathy with SLB.

He stated, “Full sympathy to Sanjay Leela Bhansali and full concern for the industry because it is not just about ‘Padmavati’.

“Any movie can face this kind of a trap of the politicians, politics and different parties. So, I think it is a very sad thing and the industry should combine and decide. Today it is ‘Padmavati’, tomorrow any movie can become like this, so we should not be a victim of politics,” he added. The filmmaker also blamed the film industry for having lack of unity.

Nihalani also spoke about the most controversial topic of the year ‘nepotism’. He said, “New people are not getting in and this has been going on for a while now, because there are only four-five groups who are signing sons or daughters of known celebrities.”

When he was asked about the comparisons with new CBFC chief, Prasoon Joshi, he said, “I am not here to compare. I did a good job, I know that. What he is going to do, you will see. I did a good job and media wrote such good praises about me. For that, I am thankful and grateful. Now you find out how he is working and the way I was working… How many movies have released on time and how many lapsed out the date?”

Talking about ‘Padmavati’, the SLB directorial stars Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh in the lead roles. (Also Read: No ‘Padmavati’ on December 1! The queen, Maharawal, and Khilji react to the allegations)

Inputs From IANS 

Murtuza Iqbal

‘Eat Sleep Bollywood Repeat’ is his life Mantra. Dance is his first love and Rani Mukerji is his eternal crush. He is someone who loves being himself, and as for the ones who don’t agree, his reply? “Talk to my hand!”