Mumbai theatre decides to screen 'PK' despite threats

After receiving a letter from right-wing organisation Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) threatening vandalism if the Aamir Khan-starrer PK was screened, single-film theatre Deepak Talkies, now known as Matterden Cinema in Mumbai, had to cancel the movie on Sunday. But after police beefed up security, director of the theatre Pranav Aashar on Monday said he was reassured enough to screen the movie again.

"We decided to screen the movie on Monday after we were reassured by the Mumbai police. PK's noon show was screened peacefully and the second show was screened at 4 o'clock," said Aashar.

Also read - Hindu Mahasabha demands ban on Aamir Khan's PK; Mumbai cinema hall cancels screening

The letter by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad demanded that a scene where a performer dressed as Lord Shiva is chased by Aamir, and another one in which Aamir pastes stickers of Gods on his cheeks as self-defense, be omitted.

Matterden Cinema in Mumbai. Rahul Kumar

But despite demands by right-wing outfits to ban scenes from the movie they deem objectionable, the Censor Board has refused to take any such action. Leela Samson, chairperson of the Censor Board of Film Certification (CBFC) said the board will not remove any scenes from the film as it has already been released. 

Meanwhile protests and vandalism was reported in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh by 500 Bajrang Dal members on Sunday. 

Also Read - 'PK' controversy: Aamir Khan film sparks outrage in several Indian cities