Pahlaj Nihalani says that the physical assault on Sanjay Leela Bhansali (SLB) in Jaipur, during the filming of Padmavati, may badly hit Rajasthan Tourism.
Like most of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s films, even Padmavati has started on a controversial note, drawing protests from activists in Rajasthan.
However, this time, the activists went a it too far – they actually slapped SLB on the sets of Padmavati in Jaipur.
Pahlaj Nihalani, who is chairperson of Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), says the incident can have an adverse effect on Rajasthan tourism.
Pahlaj Nihalani says that Sanjay Bhansali is among the finest living filmmaker in India and is responsible for taking Indian cinema to every corner of the world. He is also responsible for promoting tourism in India.
- SLB’s Khamoshi and Guzaarish promoted the beauty of Goa.
- Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Ram Leela promoted Gujarati culture.
- Bajirao Mastani took the Maratha warrior’s story all over the world.
- And now Padmavati is expected to do the same to Rajasthan’s rich heritage and culture.
But will the lumpen elements allow Sanjay Bhansali to shoot in Rajasthan? Will SLB now go back to Rajasthan after he was physically attacked?
Pahlaj Nihalani doubts so!
And Mr. Nihalani feels this is a big blow to Rajasthan’s tourism.
Once the State government had agreed to let Bhansali shoot in Jaipur it was their responsibility to provide him and his crew with adequate protection.
Why must filmmakers have to face danger while shooting outdoors in India?
“Foreign countries like Fiji, Mauritius and South Africa provide safety and subsidy for Indian film shoots. In India, forget about subsidies, even the well-being of your crew and film equipment is not ensured,” said Nihalani.
So what do you guys think? Will the assault on Sanjay Leela Bhansali really affect tourism in Rajasthan?
