New Delhi: Shah Rukh Khan’s 'Pathaan' found itself in a controversy when its first song ‘Besharam Rang’ was released. The song featured Deepika Padukone in a saffron bikini along with a few shots that several politicians and trolls found 'vulgar'.
Several leaders, including from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, had sought a ban on the film, which released on Wednesday. Later, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) directed the makers of the film to implement "changes" in the film, including its "songs".
Now as the film has been released, there are only minor changes in the song in the final cut. The close-up shot of buttocks has been removed, also the shot of Deepika eating a strawberry. Deepika's controversial saffron outfit was not removed or changed in the song. The actress can be seen wearing a saffron bikini in the song.
Meanwhile, amid the roaring response to the film, Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) withdrew its protest against the Shah Rukh Khan starrer.
“For the time being, VHP will not oppose the film Pathaan. Keeping our earlier objections in mind, changes made in the film are correct. After watching the film, if we find anything objectionable, then we'll reconsider opposing the film,” Vishwa Hindu Parishad spokesperson Shriraj Nair was quoted as saying by ANI.
In Karnataka, 30 Hindu activists were booked for indulging in violence and attempting to stall the screening of the film.
The Hindu activists stormed Swaroopa and Narthaki theaters in Belagavi and torn the posters of the movie. They had condemned the release of the movie despite the boycott call and tore down banners. Security has been tightened in the surrounding areas of the theatres.
Pathaan review
ABP review of the Shah Rukh Khan starrer reads, “In terms of performances, Shah Rukh Khan is back King style in this action-entertainer. Thankfully, the brooding spy hero gets a makeover with charm and charisma only a megastar like SRK carries. Shah Rukh Khan has the suave, style, and substance of a spy hero only that he does it even better. As for Deepika Padukone, the actor is badass in an action avatar and in fact looks natural in the genre. The added glam factor is a plus as is the chemistry between SRK and Deepika. Deepika's character is not just ornamental in the film but thankfully has a lot of substance. Hers is the modern-spy character that beauty and brains are made up of.”
“For what it's worth, 'Pathaan' is a one-time watch and a great way to begin 2023. It has its moments and is sure to bring SRK fans back to theatres also perhaps giving a good box office start for Bollywood this year.”
'Pathaan', is part of Aditya Chopra’s ambitious spy universe and stars Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, and John Abraham.