Censor Board Examines Pathaan, Asks Makers To 'Implement Changes'

The first song of the much-awaited film Pathaan has caught itself in a pickle days after its release. Titled Besharam Rang, the dance number features the film's lead pair--Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone--serenading each other in Europe's exotic locales. While the song has been gaining praise from viewers, it has also attracted a fair share of criticism.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) examined the film which has been at the centre of controversy due to its song 'Besharam Rang'.

CBFC Chairman Prasoon Joshi said the board thoroughly examined the film as per the CBFC guidelines and the committee has guided the makers of Pathaan to implement the advised changes in the film including the songs. The revised version of the film has to be submitted to the CBFC examination committee before the film releases in theatres on January 25 next year.

"The CBFC is always committed to find the right balance between creative expression and sensibility of the audience and believes that we can always find a solution through meaningful dialogue between all stakeholders," said Joshi.

Earlier this month, Madhya Pradesh home minister Narottam Mishra in a press conference said that the song 'has been shot with a dirty mindset'. He also added that the costumes in the song at first glance are 'objectionable'.

The minister also demanded makers fix the costumes or they will have to think if Pathaan gets a release in MP.

All you need to know about Besharam controversy

Besharam Rang features Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone grooving at the seaside. The music video begins with Deepika in a golden monokini while Shah Rukh sporting a low ponytail and a beach shirt. Composed by Vishal-Sheykhar, the lyrics are by Kumaar. Besharam Rang has been choreographed by Vaibhavi Merchant.

The minister raised objections to the film's lyrics and the costumes. He said, “The outfits that have been worn in the song are objectionable. It is evident that polluted minds are behind filming this song. Anyway, Deepika Padukone has been a supporter of the Tukde Tukde gang when she went for the JNU protests and that is why, I would like to request that they should correct the visuals of the song, correct the costumes, or else the permission to release this film in MP should be given or not will be a thinkable question.”

He said the "green" and "saffron" colours of the attires need to be "rectified" along with the lyrics and title of the film.

Meanwhile, activists of an outfit on Wednesday staged a protest against Pathaan and its song Besharam Rang in Indore.  The activists gathered at a road intersection and set effigies of actors Deepika Padukone and Shah Rukh Khan on fire. They demanded to ban the film alleging the Hindu community is feeling offended by the content of the song.

Pathaan is Shah Rukh Khan’s first film in four years and will release on January 25 next year. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the film sees him as a ruthless spy, ready for a face-off with John Abraham, the primary antagonist.

Suggested Reading: Moral Policing Or Criticism Of Hypersexualisation? MP Minister Objects Song Besharam Rang