Emraan Hashmi is currently filming his upcoming project at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar, one of India's most revered religious sites. However, what began as a routine shooting schedule quickly turned controversial after a film set installation triggered strong objections from local residents and religious groups.
The dispute erupted when a "Cafe and Bar" signboard was placed outside a hotel as part of the film's set design. The display reportedly angered members of Hindu organisations, pilgrimage priests and local residents, who claimed that such signage was inappropriate in a city widely regarded as a sacred Hindu pilgrimage destination.
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Why Did The Protest Begin?
According to locals, Haridwar holds immense religious significance, and the use of a "bar" sign in the vicinity of Har Ki Pauri was viewed as insensitive to the spiritual sentiments associated with the area. As word spread, tensions escalated rapidly, leading to heated arguments at the location.
The situation became increasingly tense as protests gathered momentum. Reports also emerged of a scuffle involving bouncers deployed at the site and some local residents, further intensifying the atmosphere around the shoot.
Viral Video Captures Uproar
A video from the film set has since surfaced on social media and is being widely shared online. In the footage, several local residents can be seen confronting members of the production team and voicing their objections to the signboard.
One visibly angry individual is heard questioning the crew and demanding to know who had authorised the installation of the board. He can also be heard insisting that the word "bar" be removed immediately, arguing that such references were unacceptable near the banks of the River Ganges and at Har Ki Pauri.
Film Team Removes Signboard Reference
As the controversy intensified, the production team responded by removing the word "bar" from the signboard. Following the change, the situation reportedly calmed down and the dispute was brought under control.
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Although Emraan Hashmi does not appear in the viral video, members of his film crew were seen handling the matter on-site. Actor Aparshakti Khurana is also part of the project and will be seen alongside Hashmi in the film.
Emraan Hashmi's Upcoming Film Projects
On the professional front, Emraan Hashmi is gearing up for the release of Awarapan 2. The film also stars Disha Patani and Shabana Azmi, while Nitin Kakkar serves as director. The much-anticipated sequel is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on August 14.