On Friday, the Shri Rajput Karni Sena (SRKS) announced their decision to take back their protest against the movie Padmaavat. The Sena stated Padmaavat glorifies the valour of the Rajputs. The Karni Sena Leader in Mumbai Yogendra Singh Katar said regarding the directions of the organisation’s National President Sukhdev Singh Gogamadi on Friday, a few of their members watched the movie. Katar further added only after viewing the film did they realize the movie glorified the valour and the sacrifice of the Rajputs. That every Rajput would feel proud after watching the film.
In a letter, Katar said there is no such objectionable scene between the Delhi Sultanate Ruler Alauddin Khilji and Queen Padmini of Mewar, to hurt the sentiments of the Rajput community. He further said the SRKS would take back their protest and also help the administration to release the film in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat along with other theatres in India.
Since before the release of the film, the SRKS had been demanding a ban on Padmaavat stating it distorted historical facts and depicted Queen Padmini in a poor light. It is unbelievable that from burning down vehicles to staging protests, to placing a Rs. 5 crores bounty for beheading the lead actress and the director, the Karni Sena finally ended up queuing for tickets. Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali should actually thank the Karni Sena for the free and idiotic publicity. Karni Sena’s selfless efforts for promotions include burning down everything they come across, the women threatening to bathe in fire, attacking the innocents and much more. Will the Karni Sena get their share for the promotions from the movie’s box office collection?
Last month, the Supreme Court lifted the ban on Padmaavat imposed by several states and directed them to ensure its release. On the 25th of January, the film was released in theatres across India amidst tight security and protests. Various protests being carried allegedly by SRKS members resulted in a few theatre owners deciding not to screen the film. The question still remains of what action the Indian Government will take against the SRKS members for their atrocities so far.
