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The highly anticipated Bollywood film 'Emergency,' directed by and starring Kangana Ranaut, is set to hit the screens after a series of controversies and delays. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has announced that the film will be released following certain cuts agreed upon by Ranaut and the board's revising committee. The news comes after a legal battle between the film's co-producers, Zee Studios, and the CBFC, which saw Zee Studios filing a petition demanding the release of the censor certificate.
The controversy surrounding 'Emergency' began when various Sikh organizations, including the Shiromani Akali Dal, expressed their discontent with the film, alleging misrepresentation of their community and historical inaccuracies. The film, a biographical political thriller, depicts the life of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during her controversial emergency period between 1975 and 1977. Ranaut portrays Gandhi in the film, and her portrayal, coupled with the film's narrative, drew criticism from the Sikh community.
The CBFC, in response to the backlash, initially deferred the film's release, citing concerns about potential sensitivities. However, after negotiations and the acceptance of suggested cuts by Ranaut, the board is prepared to issue a censor certificate, paving the way for the film's release. The proposed cuts, as stated by advocate Abhinav Chandrachud representing the CBFC, are minimal, only involving a few words here and there, without altering the film's core narrative.
The Bombay High Court, where the legal case was being heard, adjourned the hearing to Thursday, giving the producers a chance to confirm the details of the agreed upon changes and address any remaining concerns. 'Emergency' was initially scheduled for a September 6th release, but was delayed due to the ongoing certification process. With the censor board's clearance and the producer's acceptance of the cuts, the film's release is now expected in the near future, although a definitive date has yet to be announced.
Source: Kangana Ranaut agrees to make cuts to her film Emergency, next hearing on Thursday