Film on Thackeray runs into controversy

The upcoming film on late Shiv Sena supremo Balasaheb Thackeray has run into controversy over scenes related to Babri Masjid and south Indians.

Titled 'Thackeray', talented actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui plays the role of the charismatic leader, while Amrita Rao would be seen as his wife, Meenatai Thackeray. The film is directed by Abhijit Panse.

The film is slated for release on 25 January 2019, coinciding with the birth anniversary celebrations of Thackeray.

Thackeray (23 January 1926 - 17 November 2012), a cartoonist-turned-politician, was one of the most powerful orators and regional leaders - who has left a mark in national politics.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), popularly called Censor Board, has taken exception to certain scenes referring to the Babri Masjid and the south Indian community. The Censor Board has suggested "audio modifications" - in a couple of places.

"There is no question of a ban, this is Thackeray. Nobody can ban Thackeray," said Shiv Sena spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut, who has written the film. "What is right and what is not right, who will decide? This is a biopic, it is a true story. Balasaheb's life was an open book. The censor board will understand. Some things take time to be understood," he added.

Thackeray Sr formed Shiv Sena in 1966 to fight for the rights to the Marathi-manoos.

Meanwhile, Tamil and Telugu star Siddharth has also tweeted against the biopic’s anti-South Indian tone. “Nawazuddin has repeated 'Uthao lungi bajao pungi' in the film #Thackeray. Clearly, hate speech against South Indians... In a film glorifying the person who said it! Are you planning to make money out of this propaganda? Stop selling hate! Scary stuff!" he tweeted.