Tamil film 'Sarkar' sparks protests over reference to Jayalalithaa; makers to remove 'objectionable' scenes

Certain scenes in the movie showing grinder, mixers, fans and other items disbursed under government welfare schemes, being burnt is seen as an obvious reference to the late Jayalalithaa’s flagship scheme of providing these things free of cost.

Tamil star Vijay's Diwali release Sarkar courted a huge controversy over objectionable reference to late former CM Jayalaithaa. Image: Instagram

New Delhi: Tamil film 'Sarkar' courted a huge controversy over an alleged reference to the deceased former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Jayalalithaa and faced a backlash from the ruling AIADMK. The film starring actor Vijay, allegedly depicts the government schemes in bad light.  After facing the hostile response, the makers of the film on Thursday reportedly agreed to remove the controversial scenes from the movie. They agreed to ‘mute’ an apparent reference to J Jayalalithaa. The AIADMK had also threatened the makers of initiating legal actions if the objectionable scenes and reference were not taken down. Certain scenes in the movie showing grinder, mixers, fans and other items disbursed under government welfare schemes, being burnt is seen as an obvious reference to the late Jayalalithaa’s flagship scheme of providing these things free of cost. Also there is an alleged reference of the name of the late CM, which has infuriated her supporters. 'Sarkar,' is produced by Sun Pictures, and it stars Vijay and Keerthi Suresh in key roles. It  was released on November 6. It is directed by AR Murugadoss and has music by Oscar winner AR Rahman. The demonstrations were held in front of cinema halls under the leadership of party legislator A Anbalagan. The protesters demanded immediate stopping of the movie's screening.  The protesters tore posters and banners of the movie at cinema halls during their protest. There was no immediate official word from makers of the film, but sources in the 'Sarkar' unit said a 'compromise' has been arrived upon. (inputs from agencies)