Emergency release: Kangana Ranaut’s much-anticipated film ‘Emergency’ has finally cleared a significant hurdle, as the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has granted it a censor certificate. After facing delays and legal issues, the Bollywood actress shared the news on her Instagram Stories, expressing her relief.
"We have received the certificate for our movie ‘Emergency’. We will be announcing the release date soon. Thank you for your patience and support," she wrote, tagging her production house Manikarnika Films, Zee Studios, and producer Nishant Pitti.
Why Emergency's censor clearance was delayed
The film, which centers around the controversial 'Emergency' period in India under former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, has been under scrutiny. The portrayal of Gandhi, especially her assassination by her own bodyguards, has sparked debates, leading to objections from certain groups. Last month, the Bombay High Court directed the CBFC to address concerns raised by Sikh organisations, which had issues with the film's September 6 release date.
Following this, the CBFC’s examining committee reviewed the movie and cleared it for a 'UA' certificate, but with conditions. The filmmakers were required to make three edits and provide credible sources for some of the more sensitive historical statements depicted in the film. According to reports, one of the suggested cuts was a scene involving Pakistani soldiers attacking Bangladeshi refugees, which was either to be removed or altered.
About Emergency
'Emergency', directed by Kangana herself, focuses on the period between 1975-1977, when civil rights and press freedom in India were severely restricted.
In the film, Kangana portrays Indira Gandhi, while the star-studded cast includes Shreyas Talpade, Milind Soman, Mahim Chaudhary, Anupam Kher, Satish Kaushik, and Vishak Nair. The screenplay is written by Ritesh Shah, and this film marks Kangana's second directorial venture after the 2019 release ‘Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi.’