Pune multiplexes stall Marathi film screening over protests

Following security concerns, several multiplexes in Pune have decided against screening the National Award-winning Marathi film Dashakriya, which was going to release today. The film has been mired in controversy after right-wing organisations demanded a ban on the film arguing that "it hurts religious sentiments and portrays the Brahmins in poor light". Punekars only realised that the film wasn't running in theatres after they tried to book tickets online, and learned that the shows had been cancelled.

A still from the film Dashakriya

When contacted, Pushkaraj Chaphalkar from CityPride, Pune-based chain of theatres, said the bookings are currently on hold. "A few groups have been opposing the film and we don't want to get into any kind of trouble. We've just taken the step due to security issues. We will take a call by today afternoon," said Chaphalkar.

Dashakriya is based on Baba Bhand's 1994 novel by the same name and looks at the human tendency to exploit others.

According to the Akhil Bhartiya Brahmin Mahasabha (ABBM), the movie portrays Kirvants, brahmins, performing the last rites after a death, as money-mongering god-men. The film has already been cleared by the censor board with a 'U' certificate.

Director of the film, Sandip Patil said, "They are protesting against one line in the trailer that speaks about last rites being turned into a business by the community. But, the film is not against any particular community or religion."

Patil said that ABBM president Anand Dave had demanded that the film be screened for them first. "When the apex certification body has cleared the film, I don't see the need to get approval from any other group."