Padmaavat to be screened for special jury in Rajasthan, Rajput Karni Sena still defiant

The Rajasthan high court has set up a jury of four members to attend a special screening of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmaavat in Jaipur after an FIR filed was filed by petitioners, Virendra Singh and Nagpal Singh, alleging that the film distorts facts and hurts the image of queen Padmini. 

Speaking on the order, justice Sandeep Mehta said, “This court is of the firm opinion that the screening of the movie is essential for securing the ends of justice.” 

The screening will take place today in Inox Mall at 8pm. As per reports, more than 100 policemen will be deployed around the venue to counter any untoward incident. 

Lokendra Singh Kalvi, president of Shree Rajput Karni Sena, whose members have resorted to violent protest against the film in the past, has assured that the screening will not be disturbed. “We have no issues with the screening of the film for 'legal reasons'. There will be no problems from our side,” he told Indianexpress.com.

However, the group will continue to protest against the film in general.

Speaking exclusively to Cinestaan.com, Vikram Singh Divrala, senior member of Shree Rajput Karni Sena, said, “We have not withdrawn our protest. We are still against Padmaavat.” He also clearly stated that Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, which withdrew its protest against the film last week, is not related to Shree Rajput Karni Sena.