Udta Punjab to soar over Indian censor board

Producer Anurag Kashyap has approached the Bombay High Court over censorship row

The battle between the makers of Udta Punjab and India's central censor board continues.

The Central Board for Film Certification (CBFC) had initially demanded 89 cuts including references to Punjab, expletives and drug scenes in the upcoming film which features Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor and Alia Bhatt in lead roles.

Producer Anurag Kashyap was left with no choice but to approach the Bombay High Court. During a hearing held on Friday, the high court noted that people must be allowed to watch whatever they want on television or cinema as "everybody has a choice." The high court also reminded CBFC that its job is to certify films, not to censor them.

Udta Punjab 'grounded' by Indian censor board

Shahid Kapoor as Tommy in 'Udta Punjab'. PHOTO: INDIANEXPRESS

Although the final verdict will be announced on Monday, the high court has hinted that it will allow Udta Punjab to be released with just one cut.



Phantom films has agreed to remove the objectionable scene but will wait till the final verdict.

Indian filmmakers go to court over censorship row

"We have offered disclaimers in three parts to the effect that movie doesn't put any state in bad light. There's no propagation for drug abuse, we condemn drug abuse. Let's wait for Monday," the lawyer for Udta Punjab makers was quoted as saying.

The film is slated to release on June 17.

Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.